Edo Hunters Killing: Okpebholo Suspends Security Chief, Bans Illegal Vigilante Groups Amid National Outrage
By IDNN Crime & Security Desk | March 31, 2025
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has removed the Commander of the State Security Corps, Retired Commissioner of Police Friday Ibadin, from office. He also banned all illegal vigilante groups following the brutal killing of 16 hunters in Uromi, Esan Northeast Local Government Area.
The hunters were traveling from Port Harcourt to Kano for the Eid-el-Fitr celebration on March 27. A mob mistook them for kidnappers and lynched them, allegedly with help from an unregistered vigilante group.
Edo Government Reacts: Crackdown Begins
The Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, issued a statement condemning the group’s actions. He confirmed that the vigilantes involved had no official registration with the Edo State Security Corps.
“Their actions do not reflect our values or the law,” Ikhilor stated.
He confirmed that security forces have arrested 14 suspects. A special team from the Inspector-General of Police is tracking other culprits.
Kano Sends Delegation, Demands Justice
Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf condemned the killings and sent a delegation to Edo. The group will meet with state officials and leaders of the Hausa community.
“This is a barbaric act. We won’t rest until justice is done,” Yusuf declared.
He promised full compensation for victims’ families and urged Kano residents to remain peaceful. He praised Kano as one of Nigeria’s most tolerant states.
National Reactions: Military, CAN, Traditional Leaders Speak Out
Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa described the killings as avoidable. He urged citizens to rely on trained security agencies rather than mob action.
“Let the police and military handle threats. Don’t take the law into your own hands,” he advised.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) called the incident a gross human rights violation.
“These men were hunters. A mob mistook their tools for weapons and burned them alive,” said CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh.
He urged the government to arrest and prosecute the killers swiftly.
Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, and House of Reps Spokesman Akintunde Rotimi also condemned the killings. They called for national unity and protection for all Nigerians.
Key Facts You Should Know
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The 16 hunters carried traditional hunting tools, which led to their wrongful labeling as kidnappers.
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The mob that killed them included members of an unregistered vigilante group.
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The state security boss has been dismissed, and a statewide ban on illegal vigilante groups is now in effect.
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A federal investigation is underway, with 14 arrests made so far.
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Top Nigerian leaders across religious and political lines have called for swift justice and national unity.
