The Edo State government has launched a decisive crackdown on illegal vigilante groups following the brutal mob killings of 16 people in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area.
Illegal Vigilantes Defy Ban, Linked to Uromi Killings
The state government had previously banned unauthorized vigilante groups, many of which were created under the former PDP-led administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki. Despite orders to disband and disarm, some of these groups continued to operate unlawfully, leading to rising tensions and, ultimately, the deadly violence in Uromi over the weekend.
In response, Governor Monday Okpebholo has ordered security agencies to take firm action against the illegal groups. As part of the measures, the governor has also suspended the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), pending a full investigation into the incident.
A government statement clarified that the vigilante group responsible for the killings was not registered or profiled by the Edo State Security Corps. “Their actions do not align with the principles of the Okpebholo administration, and they were never an officially recognized security outfit,” the statement read.
Arrests Made as Edo Government Vows Justice
Authorities have already arrested 14 suspects in connection with the killings. A special task force, set up by the Inspector General of Police, has been deployed to track down others involved in the attack.
Governor Okpebholo reassured residents that justice would be served swiftly and urged the public to remain calm while security forces work to restore order. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and preventing unlawful groups from taking the law into their own hands.
The state government emphasized that it will not tolerate any form of jungle justice and vowed to dismantle all unauthorized vigilante operations to prevent further incidents of violence.
As investigations continue, security has been heightened in Uromi and surrounding areas to prevent any potential reprisals and maintain peace.
