Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has demanded the public parade of suspects linked to the brutal killing of 16 hunters and has called for compensation for their families.
Governor Yusuf made this demand on Monday during a condolence visit by his Edo State counterpart, Monday Okpebholo, in Kano.
The visit followed the burial of the victims in Uromi, Edo State, on Saturday, just 48 hours after they were lynched by a mob.
Members of the Hausa community gathered at the cemetery to pay their last respects to the victims, who were burned to death after being falsely accused of being kidnappers.
The incident occurred when the hunters, traveling in a truck, were intercepted by a vigilante group.
Sixteen of them were killed, while ten managed to escape.
During the meeting at the Kano Government House, Governor Yusuf condemned the attack, emphasizing the value of human life in Nigerian society.
“This cowardly act contradicts the fundamental values upheld by our society, which are deeply rooted in both Islamic and Christian teachings,” he stated.
He revealed that 14 suspects had been arrested so far in connection with the killings and assured that Kano remained committed to peaceful coexistence.
“We have implemented strong security measures to prevent any reprisal attacks. Additionally, we urge that the arrested suspects be publicly paraded to bring relief to the victims’ families and ensure justice,” Yusuf added.
He also called on Governor Okpebholo to ensure that the families of the victims receive fair compensation. Commending President Bola Tinubu’s prompt response, Yusuf expressed confidence in the security agencies’ commitment to justice.
Governor Okpebholo, in his response, condemned the lynching in Udune, Uromi Local Government Area, describing it as barbaric and unacceptable.
“I was deeply saddened by this tragic event. Upon my arrival, I met with my Hausa brothers, who had generously supported me during my election campaign,” he said.
He further revealed that President Tinubu had directed the Inspector-General of Police and other security agencies to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
“A thorough investigation has commenced, and all those responsible will be held accountable. Security agencies have already arrested 14 suspects, and after the holidays, they will be transferred to Abuja for further interrogation. More arrests will follow as investigations continue,” he assured.
A statement from Governor Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, disclosed that some of the victims were from Bankure Local Government Area in Kano State.
Deeply moved by the tragic event, Governor Yusuf reassured the bereaved families and the people of Kano that justice would be served.
“I was heartbroken when I received news of the incident. By 4 a.m., I left Abuja for Uromi to meet with the affected families. During my campaign, your people supported me, and I stand with you in this time of grief. I extend my condolences to the people of Kano State and pray for the eternal rest of the victims’ souls.
“We have made significant progress in our investigations, and President Tinubu has ordered security agencies to go after the culprits. I assure you that justice will be done,” Okpebholo stated.
Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation for Okpebholo’s prompt intervention and support for the affected families.
“We acknowledge and appreciate the swift response of the Edo State Governor. It is well known that our people were returning from Port Harcourt when they were brutally murdered. The majority of the victims hailed from two local governments in Kano State. Governor Okpebholo ensured that their bodies were retrieved and given a proper burial. He has also fulfilled his promise to support the bereaved families.
“We trust his assurance that the perpetrators will face justice. The people of Kano are peaceful and hospitable. This tragic event serves as a lesson to all, and I urge leaders across Nigeria to ensure the safety and protection of all citizens, regardless of their location. Governor Okpebholo’s visit today is a demonstration of true leadership, and we appreciate his solidarity.”
Speaking on behalf of the Arewa community in Edo State, Badamasi Saleh, who accompanied Okpebholo to Kano, reaffirmed the longstanding bond between the northern community and the people of Edo, emphasizing that the unfortunate event should not be used to tarnish the state’s image.
“I was born and raised in Edo State, and we have always maintained a peaceful relationship with the people there. This incident should not be used to create division or smear the reputation of the Edo State Government.
“The swift intervention by the state government was commendable. Moreover, it was the people of Uromi who rescued some of the victims from the assailants. This tragedy will not alter our bond with the people of Edo.”
Similarly, the leader of the Edo community in Kano, Fred Akhigbe, appreciated Governor Okpebholo’s visit and urged both communities to continue fostering peace and unity.
