A horrific attack on a group of hunters in Edo State has left 16 people dead, sparking widespread condemnation from top government officials.
The victims, who were from the North, were on a hunting expedition to Rivers State when they were allegedly killed by members of a vigilance group in Udune Efandion, an Uromi community in the Esan North Local Government area.
The vigilance group claimed they suspected the victims of being kidnappers due to the presence of dane guns. However, President Bola Tinubu has condemned the attack as “jungle justice,” ordering that those responsible be brought to justice.
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo visited the scene to assess the situation, while the Northern States Governors’ Forum described the incident as “horrific murder” that must be condemned with severity. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin also called for punishment of the perpetrators.
The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 14 suspects in connection with the attack. Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Moses Yamu assured that justice would be served, stating that the command is dedicated to ensuring justice for the victims and leaving no stone unturned in the ongoing investigation.