President Bola Tinubu and several governors have condemned the killing of 16 travellers by an angry mob in Uromi, Edo State. The president ordered a manhunt for the perpetrators and expressed his deep shock at the violence, which took place in the Esan North Local Government Area.
The victims, who claimed to be hunters, were travelling in a Dangote Cement truck when they were intercepted by local vigilantes in the Udune Efandion community around 1:30 pm. Upon searching the vehicle, locally-made dane guns were discovered, which led to the mob’s violent reaction. The travellers were accused of being kidnappers and were lynched. A disturbing 29-second video captured the moment they were beaten, set ablaze, and left to die. The video showed the victims pleading for their lives while some residents went about their business, unfazed by the brutality unfolding.
An eyewitness, identified only as John, stated that the mob’s anger stemmed from the frequent kidnappings in the area. However, he argued that the vigilantes should have handed the suspects over to the police instead of taking matters into their own hands.
He said, “After seeing the travellers with guns, the vigilantes raised the alarm, as people descended on them. How could they be carrying arms from wherever they were coming from? Are they hunters? What were they doing in a Dangote Cement truck with guns? I think the people were frustrated by frequent kidnaps in the area. However, they should have handed them over to the police.”
The tragedy was further compounded by the late arrival of the police, which resulted in only four victims being saved, though two sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the arrest of 14 suspects in connection with the attack. Police spokesperson Moses Yamu stated that the victims were travelling in a truck from Port Harcourt and were carrying 25 individuals, including the 16 killed. While the situation was unfolding, vigilantes raised alarms, claiming the travellers were kidnappers, which led to the attack. The truck was set on fire during the incident, and the police arrived in time to rescue 10 of the passengers.
President Tinubu, in a statement issued by his special adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, condemned the “dastardly act,” emphasising that jungle justice has no place in Nigeria. He directed security agencies to conduct a swift and thorough investigation, ensuring that those responsible for the killings would face justice. The president extended his condolences to the victims’ families and reaffirmed that all Nigerians have the right to travel freely without fear of violence or intimidation.
