Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has called for a transparent legal process, including a public parade of suspects arrested in the recent killing of 16 people in Uromi, Edo State, to ensure that justice is being served. This call follows the tragic deaths of the victims, who were allegedly traveling when they were attacked.
Governor Yusuf expressed gratitude towards President Bola Tinubu and Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for their swift and decisive actions in response to the killings. He emphasized that Nigerians need to witness justice being done, which includes seeing the perpetrators publicly held accountable for their actions.
Yusuf thanked the federal and Edo State government delegations for their solidarity and commitment to securing justice for the families of the deceased and the injured. He commended the efforts to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region and called for the promised compensation for the bereaved families to be implemented without delay.
In addition to praising the response of local authorities, the governor reiterated his demand for a transparent legal process, stressing that justice must be seen to be done for the people of Kano and the rest of the country.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), led by Executive Secretary Dr. Tony Ojukwu, also condemned the killings, noting the dangers of mob justice and calling for greater respect for human rights and the rule of law. Ojukwu emphasized that the constitutional right to life and freedom of movement had been violated in the Uromi incident and demanded that all perpetrators be brought to justice.
Protests Erupt in Otukpo Over Kidnappings and Killings
Meanwhile, residents of Otukpo in Benue State took to the streets on Tuesday to protest the rising cases of kidnapping and killings in the area. The protesters, who blocked major roads and disrupted movement, called for immediate government intervention to restore security and ensure the protection of lives and property in their communities.
The demonstrators voiced concerns over the increasing insecurity, with one youth leader stating that the situation had become unbearable, with people no longer able to sleep peacefully due to constant attacks by armed men. The protesters demanded that security agencies take action and restore order in the region.
In related developments, residents of Olena in Asa, also in Benue State, have been forced to flee their homes due to attacks by suspected herdsmen. The community has reportedly been under siege for several days, with numerous fatalities and abductions. A resident confirmed that villagers fled after it became apparent that authorities were not responding to their calls for help.
