The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the suspension of the Edo State Security Corps Commander, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.). This happened after a mob killed 16 Northern travelers in Uromi.
Furthermore, The state government announced this decision in a statement about the tragic incident. Which occurred on Thursday, March 27, 2025, in the Uromi area of Esan North East Local Government Area.
After reviewing the preliminary report on the unfortunate incident. His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, ordered the immediate suspension of all illegal vigilante groups operating under any guise in Edo State. He also suspended the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.).
Gov. Okpebholo
“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,” the statement continued.
The statement confirmed that authorities had already arrested 14 individuals, and a manhunt continues for others involved.
Also, a special team under the Inspector General of Police leads the operation. The Edo State Governmen also reaffirming its commitment to protecting citizens’ rights to move freely and engage in lawful business.
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Earlier, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, strongly condemned the killing of hunters traveling through Edo State. The incident, which occurred on March 28, 2025, could have been avoided if authorities had verified the victims’ identities.
The Director of Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, stated this in a Sunday press release.
The Chief of Defence Staff urged Nigerians to report security matters to the authorities. And not to take the law into their own hands.
He emphasized that the Nigeria Police, military, and other security agencies are well-trained to handle such matters.
The Chief of Defence Staff assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will work closely with the police and other relevant security agencies. So as to bring the perpetrators of this dastardly act to justice.
The governor also warned that all local hunters and vigilante groups must register with the police, DSS, Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), or other legally mandated agencies to regulate firearm possession. He also urged vigilante groups to report to the police for appropriate action.
He called for calm and encouraged citizens to support the AFN and other security agencies in fulfilling their constitutional duties.
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