As outrage and condemnation continue to trail the horrendous killing of 16 Northerners suspected to be kidnappers at Uromi, Esan North-East local government area of Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo has suspended the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, (ESSC) Friday Ibadin, a retired commissioner of police, as well as activities of all unauthorised vigilante groups operating in the state.
Recall that some local vigilante members had last Thursday March 27, 2025 intercepted a Dangote Cement truck conveying the victims who, following a search, were found to be in possession of 19 locally fabricated firearms. Though they claimed to be hunters, the vigilantes were not convinced. And suspecting that they were kidnappers, meted out jungle justice on them, and set them ablaze. They were buried on Saturday.
Ten of them were however lucky as they were rescued by the police.
In a statement on Sunday, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor, disclosed that the vigilante group responsible for the tragic killings on March 27, operated illegally, as it was neither registered nor profiled under the Edo State Security Corps.
According to Ikhilor, “Their actions do not reflect the core values, principles, and objectives of the Okpebholo administration or the Edo State Security Corps Governance Law.
“Following a review of the preliminary report on the incident, the government has ordered the immediate suspension of all unauthorised vigilante groups operating in the state.
“And the suspension of CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps.”
He said investigations into the killings led by a special team assigned by the Inspector General of Police, were ongoing, with 14 arrests made so far and an intensive manhunt underway for others involved.
The SSG said, “The Edo Government reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of all citizens to move freely and conduct lawful business anywhere in the country”.
Ikhilor also disclosed that the government was in contact with the victims’ families, community leaders, and the Kano State Government, as most of the deceased were reported to be from Kano.
He urged all stakeholders to remain calm, assuring them that the state government was committed to ensuring justice was served swiftly, transparently, and effectively.