By Nathaniel Zacchaeus, with agency report
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has condemned the brutal killing of 16 hunters in Udune, Uromi Local Government Area of the state, describing the attack as barbaric and unacceptable.
Okpebholo condemned the act yesterday at Government House in Kano State during a condolence visit to Governor Abba Yusuf.
The Edo State Governor also paid a similar visit to the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, later yesterday in Abuja.
Speaking with the Kano State Governor, Okpebholo said, “This unfortunate incident deeply saddened me. Upon arrival, I met with my Hausa brothers, who generously supported me during my election campaign.”
He further stated that President Bola Tinubu had directed the Inspector General of Police and other security agencies to track the perpetrators and ensure they faced justice.
“We have implemented robust security measures to hold all those involved accountable. Security agencies have already launched investigations to bring the culprits to justice,” he added.
Okpebholo described the attack as disturbing, emphasising that Nigeria valued the sanctity of human life.
“This cowardly act contradicts the fundamental principles of our society, which are deeply rooted in both Islamic and Christian teachings.
“So far, 14 suspects have been arrested in connection with the killings. As Kano remains dear to my heart, we will continue to uphold the value of being our brother’s keeper,” he said.
In response, Yusuf commended the Edo State Governor for his swift action in addressing the security following the attack.
“We have implemented strong security measures to prevent any reprisal attacks. We also urge that those arrested be publicly paraded to bring relief to the victims’ families and to ensure accountability.
“I call on Governor Okpebholo to ensure the victims’ families receive fair compensation for their loss. I also commend President Tinubu for his prompt response and commitment to justice by directing security agencies to pursue the perpetrators,” Yusuf added.
Also, during his visit to Barau at his Maitama residence in Abuja, the Special Adviser to the Deputy President of the Senate on Media and Publicity, Alhaji Ismail Mudashir, said the governor extended his condolences to Barau, who is from Kano State.
The statement added that the Governor pledged that the state government would assist the victims’ families.
The Governor disclosed that the 14 suspects arrested in connection with the killings of the innocent travellers are going to be taken to Abuja for further interrogation.
He assured his guest that the perpetrators would face the full wrath of the law and described the killings of the innocent travellers as unfortunate and condemnable.
Okpebholo said, “It is unfortunate that it happened in our state. We are here to let you and others know we are unhappy.
“The President is doing something drastic about this. He’s not happy also. The IG has swung into action. The DIG CID is in charge. So far, they have arrested 14 suspects.
“So, they are bringing them to Abuja for interrogation. We have also set up a committee to see if we can take care of the families of the deceased,” he said.
The Deputy President of the Senate said the perpetrators of the act must be brought to book to serve as a deterrent to others.
Barau said, “We cannot undo what has been done. But we all want—all Nigerians—to ensure these people are arrested and brought to justice. You are doing well in that direction. And I’m also glad you’ve spoken about the fact that your government is ready to assist the families of those affected.
“I want you to continue to pursue the case so that all those who were involved in these barbaric actions are brought to justice. It’s a cruel action, to say the facts. If they are brought to justice, it would serve as a deterrent to those who want to do this in future.
“I know that people from other parts of the country have been staying with your people in Edo for centuries in a very conducive atmosphere. And this barbaric act has never happened. I’m sure, under your watch, this will not happen again.
“I thank you very much. You’ve told me that you’ll meet the Kano State governor today. This is very good.
“Please continue what you are doing. Mr President also told us that you are doing very well in this direction, and we have seen it because, as I said, we have spoken several times on this matter in the last 72 hours,” he said.
