In Benin City, police, military, and plainclothes security personnel have secured key junctions in Uromi, the headquarters of Esan North East Local Government Area in Edo State, following the mob killing of 16 northern travelers last Thursday. This deployment aims to prevent potential reprisals, as local residents express concerns about retaliation.
Residents are hesitant to discuss the incident, particularly since around 14 individuals have been randomly arrested in connection with the killings. Many attribute the mob’s actions to the rampant kidnapping activities affecting the Edo Central senatorial district and surrounding areas, while acknowledging that this does not justify the violence.
In addition to the deployment of police, military vehicles have been seen patrolling areas near the highway and hotspots in Uromi to monitor movement and maintain order. The presence of plainclothes security agents has heightened suspicion among residents regarding strangers in the area.
During an interview, a local commercial motorcyclist initially engaged in conversation shifted his stance when asked about the incident, claiming he does not work in Uromi but rather in Ekpoma, stating he only heard of the killings upon returning home.
Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, confirmed that the investigation has been taken over by Force Headquarters. He noted that additional personnel have been deployed to the area to prevent any breakdown of law and order, but declined to provide details on the investigation’s progress.
As work resumes today, it remains uncertain whether banks will fully reopen for commercial activities. Following last week’s violent incident, many banks offered limited services, with some shutting early due to concerns about potential reprisals. A banker who wished to remain anonymous noted the cautious approach, stating, “Last Friday, we closed our doors early when we heard there might be reprisals. Public properties often become targets in such situations, leading some banks to operate on a skeleton basis or not open at all.” They mentioned that future operations will depend on the security situation, collaborating with law enforcement for updates.
The banker also highlighted the risks faced by employees, recalling the kidnapping of a bank’s Head of Operations last year, who tragically died in the incident, emphasizing that while the recent actions sparked by anger are understandable, “jungle justice cannot be justified.” They expressed that kidnappings have become a significant issue in the area, with many incidents going unreported, contributing to a climate of fear despite the historical peace of the region.
Despite Governor Monday Okpebholo’s attempts to address the situation, including suspending the vigilante security chief and visiting the families of the victims as well as the Kano State government, residents of Uromi remain fearful of potential reprisals. They are particularly anxious about the timing and nature of any retaliation, which has led to widespread panic in the community.
Hope Osajie, a businesswoman on New Agbor Road, expressed her concerns, stating, “Our main worry now is the possibility of reprisals; we don’t know where they might strike from, whether from the north or elsewhere. They could target smaller villages like Agbede in Etsako or Ewu instead of major towns. The security agencies need to enhance their efforts to prevent this.”
A resident near the Uromi market and motor park claimed that the victims were mischaracterized as hunters. He recounted an incident where a driver coming from the east witnessed men loading guns into a truck and alerted the vigilante in Ubiaja. When the vigilantes attempted to stop the truck, the driver nearly ran them over. They pursued the vehicle on motorcycles to understand its route and informed the vigilante team in Uromi.
The resident explained that the Uromi vigilantes used another truck to block the suspect truck, but during an attempted search, one of the occupants attacked a vigilante with a jackknife, leading to the chaos that ensued.While many residents were hesitant to discuss the incident with outsiders, some expressed their frustration with the government’s failure to ensure their safety. A resident named Idemudia stated, “The government has not fulfilled its duty to protect us. People are scared to go to their farms, fearing kidnappers might invade their homes. We’ve protested and asked for help, but no one has come to our aid. The events of last Thursday were a result of people’s frustration.”
The Igbo Community Association has urged governments at all levels to take firm action against jungle justice, asserting that “every human life is precious and should be protected.” In a statement from President General Chief Chris Ubatu, the association condemned the tragic and senseless killings in Uromi, expressing deep sorrow for the victims.
They affirmed their solidarity with the victims’ families and the nation, praying for the eternal rest of the deceased and strength for their loved ones. Additionally, the association praised Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf for his swift response and commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region. They encouraged him to continue addressing the root causes of violence and fostering inter-tribal harmony. The association also cautioned against the spread of misinformation and called for decisive action to combat jungle justice nationwide.
Yesterday, the Civil Society Organization on Community Advancement and Humanitarian Empowerment Initiative (CSCHEI) urged the federal government to take decisive action against the increasing violence and insecurity in Nigeria. The organization condemned the recent murder of 16 individuals in Uromi, Edo State, and called for a comprehensive investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible, as well as to provide support to the victims’ families.
In a statement from Abuja, CSCHEI Director-General Kunle Yusuff expressed deep shock and sadness over the brutal killings. He extended condolences to the victims’ families and the people of Kano State, stressing that no one should lose their life in such a violent manner. Yusuff strongly condemned the act and demanded immediate action from authorities to ensure justice and accountability for the victims.