The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has issued an immediate order to suspend all illegal vigilante groups operating in the state, regardless of their guise.
Additionally, the Governor has suspended the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.).
In a statement signed by the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, the Governor’s decision follows information from the public and a review of the preliminary report on the tragic incident in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State. This incident involved the brutal killing of several travelers on Thursday.
The statement clarified that the local vigilante group responsible for the killings on March 27th was operating unlawfully, as it had neither been profiled nor registered with the Edo State Security Corps.
“It is important to emphasize that the actions of the group are inconsistent with the values, character, and principles of the Okpebholo administration, as well as the objectives of the corps, as outlined in the Edo State Security Corps Governance Law.”
The statement further confirmed that investigations into the killings are ongoing, with fourteen (14) arrests made so far. A special team set up by the Inspector General of Police is actively pursuing other suspects involved in the crime.
The Edo State Government reaffirmed its commitment to upholding citizens’ constitutional rights to move freely and conduct lawful business anywhere in the country.
In the meantime, the government is in contact with the families of the victims, local community leaders, and the Government of Kano State, from where many of the deceased are reported to have come.
The statement concluded by urging all parties to remain calm, assuring that the State Government is committed to ensuring justice is served in an efficient, transparent, and proactive manner.
