Following the gruesome killing of some travellers by a local vigilance group at Uromi, Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate suspension of all illegal vigilance groups operating under whatever guise in the State as well as the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.).
The announcement contained in a statement signed by the Secretary to the Edo State government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, said the action of the governor follows information from the General Public a critical review of the preliminary report of the unfortunate incident at Uromi in Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State on Thursday.
According to the statement, “It is to be reiterated that the local vigilante group involved in the gruesome killing of 27th March was operating illegally as it was never profiled or registered with Edo State Security Corps.
“Its actions do not reflect the core values, character and principles of the Okpebholo administration, or the objectives of the corps as enshrined in the Edo State Security Corps Governance Law.
While revealing that investigations into the killings are on-going, the statement made public that fourteen (14) persons have been arrested so far, adding that there is intense manhunt for others involved in the gruesome killing by a special team set up by the Inspector General of Police.
It further reiterated the belief of Edo State Government in the rights of citizens to move freely or engage in lawful business in any part of the country.
The statement assured that the government is in touch with families of the victims, community leaders and the Government of Kano State where most of the deceased are reported to hail from.
