- Safiu Kehinde
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has on Monday pledged to compensate the families of the 16 hunters slain at Uromi community.
NPO Reported that the hunters who were on their way to Kano for Eid-Filtri celebration, were mistaken for kidnappers over the discovery of Dane guns in their vehicles by members of Edo state security Corps and vigilante group.
The security operatives raised alarm over the discovery of the guns, triggering the mob action which led to the lynching and murder of the hunters.
Following his arrival at Kano yesterday, Okpebholo paid a condolence visit to the families of the late hunters at Torankawa in company of the state governor, Abba Yusuf.
The Edo governor pledged to compensate the families while commending the people of Kano for remaining calm in spite of the situation.
“We are making arrangements to provide compensation to all the victims affected by this incident,
”I also commend the good people of Kano State and the entire north for not taking the law into their own hands and carry out reprisal attacks,” he said.
As captured in a video shared on X on Tuesday, Okpebholo could be seen addressing residents at the late hunters’ community in Hausa as prayed for the repose of their souls.
“We are here to commiserate with the families of the dead,
“We assure you that the perpetrators will be brought to justice.
“May Almighty God forgive the souls of the victims and reward them with paradise,” he said
The Edo governor further disclosed that about 14 arrests had been made.
“About 14 suspects have been arrested already; we will pursue the case until its logical conclusion.” He added.
Earlier, Yusuf, while praying for the souls of the victims, said that all hands were on the deck to ensure that justice prevailed.
“We are working closely with my counterpart , Governor Okpebholo to ensure that all those arrested are prosecuted.
“We will also ensure full compensation for all the affected victims”, he said.
“I pledged cash and food items to the families of victims,” he said .
The Kano governor also promised that compensation would be paid to the victims’ families, adding that the government would not relent in pursuing justice for the victims.