The governors of Edo and Kano states, Monday Okpebholo and Abba Kabir Yusuf, visited Torankawa village in Kano State on Monday to console the families of 16 hunters who were killed in Uromi, Edo State, last week. The hunters, who were traveling from Port Harcourt to Kano for the Sallah celebration, were reportedly intercepted and lynched by local vigilantes.
Tension in Torankawa as Hunters Gather
Torankawa village was tense as hundreds of hunters from neighboring communities marched in, many carrying weapons, in mourning and protest over the killings. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, with family members and colleagues of the victims demanding swift justice.
Governors Assure Justice, Compensation
Governor Okpebholo assured the families that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. He confirmed that 14 suspects had been arrested and were being transferred to Abuja for further investigation. He also pledged compensation for the victims’ families and emphasized that the attack did not reflect the values of Edo State.
Governor Yusuf echoed these sentiments, calling on the Edo State government to publicly parade and prosecute the suspects. He urged residents to remain calm and avoid reprisals, stressing the need for peaceful coexistence.
Protests and Demands for Justice
Youths and women in Torankawa staged protests, carrying placards with messages such as “Justice for our traveling hunters” and “Stop killing Northerners.” They demanded the swift prosecution of those responsible and an end to targeted violence.
National Reactions and Call for Accountability
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau condemned the killings as a “barbaric act” and urged authorities to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. The Arewa Think Tank also warned against inciting tensions between the North and South over the incident, urging Nigerians to remain united.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has reportedly directed security agencies to crack down on the perpetrators. The federal government has also assured that all those involved will face justice.
As investigations continue, both state and federal authorities are under pressure to ensure that such incidents do not reoccur, reinforcing the call for improved security and inter-community trust across Nigeria.
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