Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has paid a condolence visit to his Kano State counterpart, Abba Yusuf, following the tragic killing of 16 Kano-bound travellers in Edo State. The killings, which took place last Friday, have sparked national outrage and raised concerns about security. The victims, who were en route to Kano for the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, were mistakenly attacked by members of a vigilante group in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State.
The Governor’s visit underscores the urgency of addressing the killing of 16 Kano-bound travellers, and the need for swift justice for the victims and their families.
Okpebholo Condemns Attack and Calls for Justice
During his visit, Governor Okpebholo strongly condemned the attack, which involved 16 Kano-bound travellers being killed by vigilante members. He expressed his deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and emphasized the importance of bringing those responsible to justice. Okpebholo reaffirmed Kano’s peaceful reputation and the unity between the two states. He also stressed that immediate action should be taken to prevent any retaliatory violence in the wake of the killings.
Governor Yusuf expressed his appreciation for Okpebholo’s gesture and assured that efforts would be made to prevent further attacks, calling for peaceful coexistence between Edo and Kano. Both governors later visited Toronkawa village in Bunkure Local Government Area of Kano State to discuss peace-building efforts and security measures with local leaders.
President Tinubu Orders Investigation into Killing of 16 Travellers
The killing of 16 Kano-bound travellers has prompted widespread condemnation. President Bola Tinubu, in response to the attack, directed security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident and hold the culprits accountable.
According to a statement from presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga,
“The President, who expressed shock at the dastardly act on Thursday, directed the police and other security agencies to conduct swift and thorough investigations and punish the suspected culprits.”
Okpebholo Faces Criticism, But His Visit Aims to Prevent Further Violence
Despite facing some criticism, Governor Okpebholo’s visit to Kano is seen by many as a strategic effort to avoid further violence and maintain peace. While some argue that his actions show weakness, it is clear that he is working to prevent any retaliation stemming from the killing of 16 Kano-bound travellers, which could destabilize Edo State.
As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are on the Nigerian security agencies to ensure that justice is served, and that peace is maintained within the affected states.
