President Bola Tinubu and Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, have condemned the killing of travellers accused of kidnapping by a mob in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State.

The victims, identified as hunters travelling for Sallah, were intercepted by a local vigilante group. After discovering dane guns in their vehicle, a mob concluded they were kidnappers and set them ablaze.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Thursday, President Tinubu directed security agencies to launch a manhunt for those responsible and ensure they face justice.

“The President, who expressed shock at the dastardly act, directed the police and other security agencies to conduct swift and thorough investigations and punish the suspected culprits,” the statement read.

Tinubu condemned the act of jungle justice, emphasizing that every Nigerian has the right to free movement across the country. He also extended his condolences to the victims’ families and assured them that their deaths would not be in vain.

“Jungle justice has no place in Nigeria, and all Nigerians have the freedom to move freely in any part of the country,” the President stated.

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Governor Okpebholo also condemned the incident, describing it as barbaric and unacceptable. Speaking through the Chief Security Officer of the Government House, SP Solomon Osaghale, in Uromi, he confirmed that four suspects had been arrested in connection with the killings.

“I can assure you that the people involved in this unprovoked attack will not go scot-free, as His Excellency has directed the Commissioner of Police to launch a full-scale investigation into the matter. As I speak, over four persons have been arrested for their involvement in this ugly incident,” Osaghale said.

He urged residents, particularly the Hausa community in Uromi, to remain calm and assured them of their safety. He confirmed that security personnel had been deployed to maintain peace and prevent further violence.

Governor Okpebholo commended community leaders for their prompt action to prevent the situation from escalating.

President Tinubu also praised the Edo State government and local leaders for their swift intervention and emphasized his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.

Investigations are ongoing as security agencies work to apprehend all those responsible for the attack.