Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has taken swift action following the brutal lynching of travelers in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area, on March 27, 2025.
The governor has suspended the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (retd.), and banned all unregistered vigilante groups across the state.
The tragic incident, which claimed the lives of several travelers, mostly from northern Nigeria, occurred when a local vigilante group allegedly found firearms in their possession while they were traveling in a Dangote Cement truck. An angry mob subsequently set the victims ablaze, although security operatives managed to rescue ten others. The deceased were buried on Saturday.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, confirmed the suspension of Ibadin and reaffirmed the government’s strict stance against illegal vigilante groups.
“It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that 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 travellers, the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo has ordered the immediate suspension of all illegal vigilante groups operating under whatever guise in the State,” the statement read.
The government clarified that the vigilante group involved in the killings was not registered with the Edo State Security Corps.
“It is to be reiterated that the local vigilante group involved in the gruesome killing of 27th March was operating illegally as it was never profiled or registered with Edo State Security Corps.
“Its actions 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,” the statement added.
The state government has intensified investigations into the incident, resulting in the arrest of 14 suspects, while a special police team continues to pursue other individuals linked to the killings.
“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,” the statement emphasized.
Furthermore, the state government has been actively engaging with the victims’ families, community leaders, and officials from Kano State, where most of the deceased reportedly originated.
“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 added.
