Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidates of the Labour Party (LP) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023, have condemned the murder of travelling hunters in Edo.
On Thursday, a mob in the Uromi area of Edo state allegedly attached and killed at least 16 hunters of northern descent who were travelling from Elele, Rivers state.
TheCable understands that a truck carrying 25 travellers was intercepted by a vigilante group in Uromi.
The travellers were attacked and lynched after some vigilante members raised the alarm, suspecting that they were kidnappers.
Ten of the travellers were rescued, while two who were injured were taken to a hospital for treatment.
Afterwards, President Bola Tinubu ordered the police and security agencies to swiftly investigate and bring the suspects to justice.
The Edo police command had also announced the arrest of 14 suspects in connection with the murder of the travellers and the torching of their truck in the state.
OBI: JUSTICE MUST PREVAIL
The former governor of Anambra state lamented that such “killings have become frequent in society”, noting that “acts of violence like these are unacceptable in any civilised and lawful nation”.
Obi said every Nigerian, regardless of ethnicity or region, has the fundamental right to move freely and safely across the country without fear of attack.
He added that “this tragic incident highlights the urgent need for improved security measures and public awareness to prevent similar occurrences in the future”.
“Reports indicate that these individuals were accused of being kidnappers, leading to their brutal murder by a mob,” Obi wrote on X.
“While addressing security concerns and combating criminal activities is crucial, resorting to extrajudicial measures undermines the rule of law and exacerbates the cycle of violence.
“I commend the government for condemning this incident and initiating an investigation.
“Furthermore, the authorities should also address the killings of Edo indigenes to ensure that justice is served for all.
“Communities must collaborate with law enforcement agencies to ensure that justice is pursued through legal channels rather than through unlawful actions.”
Expressing condolences to the victims’ families, Obi urged collective efforts towards building a peaceful, united, and law-abiding society where human life is valued.
ATIKU CALLS FOR TRANSPARENT INVESTIGATION
Reacting in a post on his X page, the former vice-president demanded a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident.
He extended his condolences to the victims’ families and emphasised the need for justice.
Abubakar also condemned the act of jungle justice, stressing that the protection of innocent lives must remain a priority.
“I am deeply saddened by reports of the tragic killing of some hunters in Edo State. My heartfelt condolences go out to their families and loved ones,” Atiku wrote.
“This unfortunate incident demands a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation to uncover and ensure that those responsible are brought to book.
“The protection of innocent lives must remain paramount, and I urge the authorities to act swiftly and decisively to prevent a recurrence of jungle justice.
“Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done to restore public confidence in our security institutions.” (The Cable)
