The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate suspension of the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), along with all unregistered vigilante groups operating in the state following the gruesome lynching of some northern travelers by a mob.
Okpebholo who announced the measures in a statement on Sunday signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, also reached out to the government and people of Kano State where the deceased reportedly hailed from and apologized on behalf of the Edo people over the jungle justice meted on the northerners who were said to be hunters.
The statement stated that the local vigilante group involved in the gruesome killing of the victims was operating illegally as it was never profiled or registered with the Edo State Security Corps.
It noted that the actions of the group “do not reflect the core values, character and principles of the Okpebholo administration, or the objectives of the corps as enshrined in the Edo State Security Corps Governance Law.”
“After a review of the preliminary report of the unfortunate incident of Thursday 27th March, 2025 at Uromi in Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State involving the gruesome killing of some travelers, Governor Monday Okpebholo has ordered the immediate suspension of all illegal Vigilante Groups operating under whatever guise in the State and the suspension of the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (Rtd.),” the statement said.
“Investigations into the killings are on-going and fourteen (14) persons have been arrested so far, while there is an intense manhunt for others involved in the gruesome killing by a special team set up by the Inspector General of Police.
“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.
“In the meantime, the Government is in touch with families of the victims, community leaders and the Government of Kano State where most of the deceased are reported to hail 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 read.