Atiku, Northern Governors Demand Probe Of Edo Killings

By Ayodele Oni

Angry reactions has greeted the killing of some Hausas Travelers in Edo state, that were mistaken for kidnappers.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar called for a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the alleged killing of some Northerners in Edo State.

The victims, who were mostly Hausa hunters, were on their way to Kano to celebrate the Sallah festivities when they were intercepted and unfortunately killed by local vigilantes in Uromi.

According to reports, the hunters, who were armed, were mistaken for kidnappers terrorizing the area.

The incident has been generating condemnation from stakeholders across the country.

In a statement on his Facebook page, Atiku said, “The unfortunate incident demands a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation to uncover the truth and ensure that those responsible are brought to book.

“The protection of innocent lives must remain paramount, and I urge the authorities to act swiftly and decisively to prevent a recurrence of jungle justice.

“Justice must not only be done, but must be seen to be done to restore public confidence in our security institutions.”

The Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) also condemned the horrific murder of travelers from Northern Nigeria in the Udune Efandion community of Uromi, Edo State.

This was contained in a statement signed by Ismaila Uba Misilli Director-General ( Press Affairs) Government House Gombe on Friday.

The Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Yahaya, described the attack as a gross violation of human rights, stressing that extrajudicial violence is entirely unacceptable and must be unequivocally condemned with the utmost severity.

The Northern Governors Forum expressed its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and all those affected by this tragic event.

“We are deeply disturbed by the loss of innocent lives and the horrific manner in which these individuals were attacked,” Governor Inuwa Yahaya said.

“This appalling act undermines the rule of law and the very fabric of our society. It is imperative that the relevant authorities conduct a full and thorough investigation into this senseless act. The perpetrators must be identified, arrested, and brought to justice swiftly.”

Governor Inuwa Yahaya reiterated that all Nigerians, regardless of their region, should be able to travel freely and safely without fear of harassment, violence, or intimidation.

He urged the government and law enforcement agencies to take swift action to prevent such incidents from recurring, while also appealing for calm.