Edo State Governor Suspends Security Chief and Illegal Vigilante Groups After Gruesome Killings
Benin City – In response to the public outrage following the brutal slaying of hunters traveling back to the North in Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo has taken decisive action by suspending the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), along with all illegal vigilante groups operating within the state.
The governor’s announcement was made through a statement released by Umar Ikhikor Esq., the Secretary to the State Government, who noted that 14 individuals have been apprehended thus far in connection with the heinous killings.
The statement read, “Following a review of the preliminary report regarding the tragic incident that occurred on March 27, 2025, in Uromi, located in the Esan North East Local Government Area, which resulted in the gruesome deaths of several travelers, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has directed the immediate suspension of all unlawful vigilante groups operating in Edo State. Additionally, the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), has also been suspended.”
The government clarified that the vigilante group implicated in the attack was operating outside the law, having never been registered or profiled with the Edo State Security Corps. “Its actions are not representative of the core values, principles, and objectives of the Okpebholo administration or as defined in the Edo State Security Corps Governance Law,” the statement further explained.
Authorities confirmed that investigations into the killings are still ongoing, with 14 suspects in custody and an active manhunt being conducted to locate additional perpetrators. A special team established by the Inspector General of Police is spearheading the operation.
Governor Okpebholo reiterated the state’s dedication to upholding constitutional rights, including the freedom of movement and lawful business activities for all Nigerians, regardless of their origin. “The Edo State Government firmly believes in the constitutionally guaranteed rights of citizens to travel freely or engage in lawful business across the country,” the statement stressed.
Furthermore, the state government has reached out to the families of the victims, community leaders, and the government of Kano State, as many of the deceased hailed from Kano.
The Edo State Government urged all stakeholders to maintain calm, assuring them that justice would be pursued swiftly, transparently, and effectively.
“We call on all parties to stay calm, as the state government is determined to ensure that justice is served in a thorough, transparent, and proactive manner,” the statement concluded.
The governor’s actions represent a strong stance against illegal security operations, aiming to reinforce public trust in the state’s security measures.
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