The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has assured the families of the 16 hunters killed in Uromi that his administration will provide full compensation for their tragic loss. Okpebholo’s statement came after a condolence visit to Torankawa in Bunkure Local Government Area, where the grieving families reside. The visit, which also included Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and other dignitaries, aimed to offer solace to the bereaved families and demonstrate solidarity in the face of such a senseless tragedy.
On the fateful day, 16 hunters were killed in Uromi, Edo State, under circumstances that have left the local community in shock. The victims were reportedly ambushed by unknown gunmen while carrying out their routine hunting activities. The incident has been widely condemned, and families, friends, and local communities are struggling to come to terms with the brutal killings.
During his visit to Torankawa, Governor Okpebholo expressed deep anger over the incident. The governor, who was visibly upset, vowed that justice would be served, and those responsible for the killings would not escape punishment. His words were firm as he addressed the villagers, stating that the government would leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
“We will ensure that justice is served on those responsible for this heinous act,” Okpebholo said. His assurance of full compensation for the families of the deceased was seen as a step toward addressing the emotional and financial burdens placed on them.
The governor also promised that the families of the slain hunters would receive both cash and food donations to help them cope with the immediate aftermath of the tragedy. Okpebholo’s actions and words were aimed at providing some comfort and assurance to the families that their loss would not go unnoticed.
The killings of the 16 hunters in Uromi have sparked outrage not only within the local community but across the region. In response to the senseless violence, hundreds of family members and supporters took to the streets in peaceful protest, demanding justice for the victims. Protesters marched through the roads leading to Torankawa village, carrying placards with powerful messages such as “We demand justice for the killings of our people,” “Hunters are not criminals,” and “We demand the speedy dispensation of justice in this matter.”
The demonstration was largely peaceful, with protesters expressing their grief and frustration in a calm yet determined manner. However, many of the hunters who took part in the protest carried their hunting weapons, signaling the community’s readiness to stand up for justice in the wake of the tragedy. Some hunters, visibly agitated, chanted war songs as the governor’s convoy passed by, demanding that the government take swift action against the perpetrators.
Local residents played a key role in ensuring that the protest remained peaceful, even as tensions ran high. The presence of the governor’s convoy in the village added to the sense of urgency, as many felt that the state’s intervention was necessary to prevent further violence and bring closure to the grieving families.
The peaceful protest was also marked by several placards bearing messages such as “Killings in the North must stop,” “Northerners are peace-loving citizens,” and “Justice must prevail.” These slogans reflected the broader sentiments of the local community, which has been grappling with a rising wave of violence in various parts of the country.
The protesters’ chants and placards highlighted a growing concern over the increasing number of violent incidents affecting various communities in Northern Nigeria. The hunters, who are often seen as protectors of their communities and guardians of tradition, were particularly vocal in their calls for peace and justice. Many participants in the protest voiced concerns that if justice was not swiftly dispensed, the killings could escalate further, leading to more instability and violence in the region.
The deaths of the 16 hunters have underscored the challenges faced by rural communities, where hunters and farmers often have to fend for themselves against criminal elements. The rising insecurity in Northern Nigeria, driven by various groups involved in armed robberies, kidnappings, and other criminal activities, has left many residents fearful for their safety. These concerns have now been amplified by the tragic killings in Uromi, with local communities demanding stronger protection from the government.
Governor Okpebholo’s visit to Torankawa was not only an expression of solidarity but also a call to action. His assurances to the families of the victims were meant to demonstrate that the state government was taking the incident seriously and would do everything within its power to address the underlying causes of the violence.
The governor’s statement that the killings would not go unpunished is a clear message that the government is committed to combating violence and bringing perpetrators to justice. His involvement in the situation, along with the presence of Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, also served as a reminder that the issue of insecurity is not limited to one state or region but is a national concern that requires collective action.
The involvement of the governors in such matters is crucial, as it signals a commitment to tackling the root causes of violence and supporting affected communities. As local communities continue to face growing insecurity, it is clear that there is a need for both state and federal governments to work together to ensure that justice is served and peace is restored.
In the aftermath of the killings, it is clear that Uromi and other communities in the region need not only justice but also a comprehensive strategy for tackling insecurity. Governor Okpebholo’s pledge to support the bereaved families is an important step, but long-term solutions must focus on addressing the systemic issues of violence, criminal activity, and lack of security infrastructure.
The state government has a critical role to play in improving security and ensuring that local communities feel safe and protected. Whether through increased law enforcement presence, improved intelligence gathering, or community engagement, it is essential for the government to prioritize the safety of all citizens.
