Gov Okpebholo Visits Uromi, Vows Justice for Travellers Killed by Vigilante Members

Gov Okpebholo Visits Uromi, Vows Justice for Travellers Killed by Vigilante Members

Uromi, Edo State – March 28, 2025

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has condemned in strong terms the brutal killing of travellers and the destruction of property in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area, allegedly carried out by members of a local vigilante group.

The tragic incident occurred on Thursday, March 27, 2025, when travellers reportedly en route from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, were intercepted by vigilante members in the town on suspicion of being criminals. The encounter led to the loss of lives and acts of arson.

In a swift response, Governor Okpebholo visited the scene on Friday, March 28, to assess the situation firsthand and commiserate with the affected communities. Visibly disturbed by the incident, the Governor described the actions of the vigilante group as “barbaric and unacceptable.”

“There is absolutely no justification for any group to take the law into their own hands,” Governor Okpebholo declared. “Due process and lawful recourse through the statutory security agencies must always be followed.”

He directed the Edo State Police Command and other relevant security agencies to launch a full-scale investigation into the incident and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice without delay.

The Governor also urged the local community to cooperate with security agencies to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

While in Uromi, Governor Okpebholo commended the leadership of the Arewa community and other stakeholders in the area for their calm and proactive steps in preventing a further escalation of tensions.

“The maturity and restraint shown by the community leaders have been commendable,” the Governor noted. “This is the spirit of unity and peace we must uphold even in the face of provocation.”

The Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to protecting the lives and property of all residents and ensuring that justice is served in this case.

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By Fred Itua
Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor
Friday, March 28, 2025