Global Rights has strongly condemned the recent extrajudicial killing of 16 hunters in Uromi, Edo State.

The organisation described the incident as a “senseless and heinous” act, allegedly carried out by local vigilantes who mistook the victims for kidnappers.

In a statement signed by the Executive Director of Global Rights, Abiodun Baiyewu, she decried the growing disregard for human life in Nigeria, emphasizing that the killings were a violation of the victims’ constitutional right to life.

The organization cited Section 33(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and prohibits intentional deprivation of life except through a lawful court sentence.

The group also highlighted the constitutional right of Nigerians to reside anywhere in the country without fear of unlawful targeting based on ethnicity or occupation. It warned that unchecked vigilante actions could exacerbate ethnic and religious tensions, threatening national peace and security.

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“While we acknowledge citizens’ frustration with the government’s failure to curb banditry and kidnapping, nothing justifies jungle justice,” the statement read.

Global Rights called for a full investigation into the killings and demanded that those responsible, including perpetrators and accomplices, be identified and prosecuted. The organization also urged political, traditional, and religious leaders to promote peace and unity, ensuring the tragedy does not fuel further violence or division.

The statement reaffirmed the government’s constitutional duty to protect Nigerians. It warned that the rise of vigilante justice is a direct result of the state’s failure to provide adequate security and law enforcement.

“The security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government,” the group emphasized, quoting Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution.

Global Rights extended condolences to the families of the victims and called for urgent government action to restore public confidence in the rule of law.