Following the brutal killings of 16 northern travelers by a mob last Thursday, security forces including police, military, and plainclothes officers have been deployed to key locations across Uromi, the administrative headquarters of Esan North East Local Government Area in Edo State.
These measures are intended to prevent any potential reprisals, as residents express fears of escalating violence.
A visit to Uromi yesterday revealed that many locals are now cautious about discussing the killings with unfamiliar faces, especially after 14 individuals were arrested in connection with the crime.
While some residents speculate that the region’s escalating kidnapping crisis, which has affected both Edo Central and neighboring Edo North districts, may have fueled the mob’s violent response, they also acknowledge that taking the law into their own hands is never justified.
FCID Assumes Control of Investigation
In addition to the increased police presence, military vehicles have been seen patrolling major roads and other sensitive areas to monitor movement and maintain peace. The presence of plainclothes officers has added to the community’s suspicions of outsiders.
One local commercial motorcyclist, initially willing to discuss the situation, changed his tune when asked for more details. “I don’t work here, I work in Ekpoma,” he said. “I only heard about the incident when I returned home today.”
Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, confirmed that the investigation has been taken over by the Force Headquarters. He stated, “The investigation is now under the Force Headquarters, and our personnel remain on the ground to ensure safety and prevent any disorder.”
Banks Scale Back Operations Amid Uncertainty
As work resumes today, many banks are still uncertain about their full operations. Several banks scaled down services last Friday in response to rumors of possible reprisals. A banker, who spoke on condition of anonymity, explained, “We had to close early last Friday when news spread of potential violence. We’ll continue to monitor the situation and may shut down again if necessary.”
The banker also shared their frustration over the growing rate of kidnappings, recounting a tragic incident involving a colleague who was kidnapped and later died.
“These crimes have left many of us frustrated, but jungle justice is never the solution,” the banker added.
Fear of Retaliation Continues to Loom
Despite efforts by Governor Monday Okpebholo to ease tensions such as suspending a local vigilante leader and visiting the victims’ families residents of Uromi remain fearful of possible retaliatory attacks.
The uncertainty surrounding when and where such reprisals might occur has left the community on edge.
Hope Osajie, a businesswoman along New Agbor Road, expressed her concerns to Vanguard.
“We are most afraid of reprisals, and we don’t know where they’ll strike next whether from the north or other regions. They may target smaller villages like Agbede or Ewu, avoiding larger towns. The security agencies must step up their efforts to prevent this.”
Local Resident Disputes Claims About Victims
A resident near Uromi’s market and motor park denied reports that the victims were hunters. He described how vigilantes attempted to stop a truck seen loading guns, only for one of its occupants to attack a vigilante with a jackknife, which led to the escalation of violence.
Though most residents are cautious about speaking publicly, some have voiced their frustration with the government’s response. One local, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “The government has failed to protect us. People are scared to go to their farms, and we don’t know if kidnappers will come to our homes. We’ve protested, but no one has helped us. What happened last Thursday was the result of years of frustration.”
Igbo Community Condemns the Killings, Calls for Accountability
The Igbo Community Association has condemned the killings, calling them “tragic and senseless.” In a statement, the association’s President-General, Chief Chris Ubatu, urged the government to take strong action against jungle justice and emphasized that every human life is valuable.
“We stand in solidarity with the families of the victims and unequivocally condemn this inhumane act,” the statement read. “We also commend Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State for his swift response and ongoing commitment to ensuring peace in his state. We urge all governments to address the root causes of violence and promote inter-tribal harmony.”
Civil Society Organization Demands Government Action
The Civil Society Organization on Community Advancement and Humanitarian Empowerment Initiative (CSCHEI) also condemned the killings and called on the federal government to take immediate action to curb the growing violence and insecurity in Nigeria.
The group emphasized the need for a thorough investigation, prosecution of the perpetrators, and support for the families of the victims.
Kunle Yusuff, Director-General of CSCHEI, expressed deep sorrow over the killings: “We are shocked and saddened by this brutal act. The government must act decisively to ensure justice and to prevent further violence.”
