Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has suspended the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, retired Commissioner of Police Friday Ibadin, following the brutal lynching of several travellers in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area.
The victims, mostly from northern Nigeria, were attacked and set ablaze by a mob on March 27 after a local vigilante group allegedly discovered firearms in their possession while they were traveling in a Dangote Cement truck.
Security operatives managed to rescue 10 individuals, while those killed were buried on Saturday.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, confirmed Ibadin’s suspension and announced a ban on unregistered vigilante groups across the state.
“The governor has ordered the immediate suspension of all illegal vigilante groups operating under whatever guise in the state,” the statement read.
It further clarified that the vigilante group responsible for the attack was not officially recognized by the state security apparatus. “The local vigilante group involved in the gruesome killing was operating illegally as it was never profiled or registered with the Edo State Security Corps. Its actions do not reflect the core values, character, and principles of the Okpebholo administration,” the statement added.
Authorities have so far arrested 14 individuals linked to the killings, while a special team set up by the Inspector General of Police is hunting for other suspects.
The Edo State Government also emphasized its commitment to upholding citizens’ constitutional rights, particularly the freedom of movement. “The government of Edo State reiterates its belief in the constitutionally guaranteed rights of citizens to move freely or engage in lawful business in any part of the country,” the statement said.
Officials confirmed that they are in contact with the victims’ families, community leaders, and the Kano State Government, where most of the deceased were from.
“We urge all parties involved to remain calm as the state government remains committed to ensuring that justice is done in a most efficient, transparent, and proactive manner,” the statement concluded.
