Tragic Mob Justice: 16 Travelers Brutally Killed In Uromi, Edo State

Scope 01 Apr 2025

Outrage Erupts as 16 Northern Travelers Are Lynched in Edo State

Anderson here, and let me tell you, the nation is reeling from a horrifying incident that unfolded in Uromi, Edo State. Sixteen travelers, all from the northern part of the country, were brutally murdered by a mob who accused them of being kidnappers. This tragic event has sparked outrage across the country, with many calling for justice and an end to mob violence. It’s a stark reminder of how fear and misinformation can spiral into something so devastating.

What Happened That Day?

Let’s break it down. These 16 victims, who were identified as hunters, were on their way from Port Harcourt to Kano to celebrate Sallah, a joyous occasion that turned into a nightmare. As they passed through Uromi, they were stopped by local vigilantes. The hunters had licensed Dane guns with them—traditional weapons used for hunting. But instead of understanding their purpose, the guns fueled suspicion, and a mob quickly formed. In a shocking turn of events, the crowd decided to take matters into their own hands, tying the victims to tires and setting them ablaze. Videos that surfaced online showed the harrowing scene, with onlookers standing by as the tragedy unfolded.

The Police Respond

The Edo State Police Command confirmed the brutal attack and stated that 14 suspects had been arrested. According to Police spokesperson CSP Moses Yamu, the group of travelers was intercepted by vigilantes on March 27, 2025. The situation spiraled out of control when the vigilantes falsely labeled the hunters as kidnappers. The result? Sixteen innocent lives lost, and a truck set on fire. Thankfully, ten travelers were rescued, and two injured survivors were hospitalized. Police units, including the Mobile Force and tactical teams, have been deployed to the area to restore calm. Yamu emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence and warned against any actions that might escalate tensions further.

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Survivors Share Their Terrifying Accounts

Two survivors, Dayyabu Yahya and Mustafa Ali Kassim, recounted the harrowing ordeal. Dayyabu described how their journey was peaceful until they reached Uromi. That’s when vigilantes stopped their truck, beat the driver, and began searching them. Despite finding only hunting weapons, the group was attacked. Mustafa shared how the vigilantes handed them over to locals who continued the assault. Realizing they were about to be killed, Mustafa managed to escape. He was lucky enough to find help from some Hausa people who gave him money to reach their community leader. Their stories are a chilling reminder of the fear and chaos that gripped that day.

Torankawa Village Grieves the Loss of Its Sons

All the victims hailed from Torankawa village in Bunkure Local Government Area of Kano State. The community is now in mourning, with families left in limbo, unsure of the fate of their loved ones. A local source revealed that so far, only three identities have been confirmed. Malam Alasan Ubale, a native of the village, expressed his grief, noting that the hunters had made this annual trip for years without incident. This tragedy has left a deep scar on the village, one that will take time to heal.

Edo Governor Promises Swift Justice

Governor Monday Okpebholo, through the Chief Security Officer of Government House, SP Solomon Osaghale, condemned the attack in the strongest terms, calling it "barbaric and condemnable." He assured the public that those responsible will be held accountable. "His Excellency has directed a full-scale investigation. I can assure you that the people involved will not go scot-free. So far, four arrests have been made," Osaghale stated. The governor also appealed for calm, assuring the Hausa community in Uromi that security forces are on the ground to maintain peace and prevent further violence.

President Tinubu Calls for Immediate Action

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu strongly condemned the killings and directed security agencies to launch a swift investigation. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed shock at the brutality of the act. "The President expressed shock at the dastardly act, and directed police and other security agencies to conduct swift and thorough investigations and punish the suspected culprits," the statement read. Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of the victims and reiterated that jungle justice has no place in a civilized society. "All Nigerians have the freedom to live and move freely in any part of the country," he emphasized.

Northern Governors Forum Joins the Call for Justice

The Northern States Governors’ Forum, led by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, condemned the incident as a "gross violation of human rights." Governor Yahaya described the act as "appalling" and stressed that it undermines the rule of law and the fabric of society. "The perpetrators must be identified, arrested, and brought to justice swiftly," he stated. The forum reiterated that every Nigerian deserves the right to move freely without fear of harassment or violence. It’s a powerful message that resonates with many across the country.

This tragedy serves as a wake-up call for all of us. It’s time to address the root causes of mob violence and work together to ensure justice and peace prevail. Let’s hope that the victims' families find solace in the pursuit of justice and that we, as a nation, take steps to prevent such horrors from happening again.