The Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), led by the Sultan of Sokoto,
Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has condemned the brutal killing of 16
travellers in Uromi, Edo State, calling for swift justice, including the death
penalty for those responsible.
JNI Secretary-General, Prof. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, described
the act as barbaric and urged security agencies to arrest all perpetrators. He
also appealed to the people of Kano State to remain calm and avoid reprisals,
stressing that security forces must remain vigilant to prevent further
violence.
“The Edo State government must ensure that the culprits are
prosecuted to a logical conclusion. They should receive the death sentence to
serve as a deterrent,” JNI stated.
The group also criticized the Nigerian government’s failure
to curb rising insecurity, questioning why criminals continue to act with
impunity.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Police Command has arrested 14
suspects linked to the attack, in which a vigilante group intercepted a truck
carrying 25 travellers. During the stop, some passengers were found with
locally made firearms, triggering suspicion. A mob then lynched 16 travellers
and set their truck on fire.
Police officers arrived at the scene in time to rescue 10
passengers, two of whom sustained injuries and are receiving medical care.
Commissioner of Police, Betty Otimenyin, assured that
investigations are ongoing, with additional security forces deployed to prevent
further violence. She urged residents to remain calm and avoid any retaliatory
attacks.
Northern Elders Demand Action, Issue 14-Day Ultimatum
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has condemned the killings,
calling them an extra-judicial execution of innocent northern hunters returning
home for Eid celebrations.
NEF spokesperson, Prof. Abubakar Jika Jiddere, warned that
the North would take decisive action if justice is not served. The forum issued
a 14-day ultimatum to the Edo State and federal governments, demanding:
- The recovery and dignified return of the victims' bodies to
their families.
- The arrest and public prosecution of all perpetrators.
- Compensation for the victims’ families.
- A formal apology from the Edo State government to the
North.
“The federal government must ensure justice is served to
maintain peace and unity,” NEF stated, urging Northerners to remain patient
while the authorities handle the case.
In response, Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa,
reassured that the government is committed to investigating the tragedy and
bringing those responsible to justice.
