Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the killing of seven persons in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, describing the act as barbaric. The Governor condemned the setting ablaze of the suspected kidnappers by residents of the community, vowing to ensure that the perpetrators face the full wrath of the law.

In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, the Governor was quoted as saying that such acts of mob justice are unacceptable in the state. Represented by the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Government House, SP Solomon Osaghale, Governor Okpebholo stressed that nobody has the right to take another person’s life, no matter the circumstances.

SP Osaghale, who was dispatched to Uromi to assess the situation, revealed that the victims were passengers in a commercial truck when they were stopped by local security operatives. A search of the vehicle reportedly uncovered firearms, leading to a mob attack. He confirmed that four persons have been arrested in connection with the incident.

Fred Itua stated that the Governor has directed the Commissioner of Police to launch a thorough investigation to ensure justice and prevent future occurrences. The CSO assured residents, particularly the Hausa community in Uromi, of their safety, noting that security personnel have been deployed to maintain peace.

The leader of the Hausa community in Uromi, Mallam Aliyu Haruna, expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for his swift response. Haruna described the incident as unprecedented, emphasizing the longstanding peaceful coexistence between indigenes and the Hausa community, some of whom have lived in the area for over 70 years.

Fred Itua reiterated the Governor’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and fostering a secure environment for all residents. He urged the public to remain calm and allow law enforcement agencies to conclude their investigations.

The statement was signed by Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, on Friday, March 28, 2025.