Gisthood 
On March 27, 2025, a group of 25 travelers from northern Nigeria was intercepted in Uromi, Edo State, by local vigilantes. Suspicions arose when locally made weapons were discovered in their vehicle.
This led to a violent mob attack, resulting in the deaths of 16 individuals, with their bodies set ablaze.
Ten others were rescued, two of whom sustained injuries and were hospitalized. Fourteen suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Governor Okpebholo’s Condolence Visit
In response to the incident, Governor Monday Okpebholo traveled to Kano State to meet with the families of the victims and the state government. During his visit, he expressed profound sorrow over the tragic event and assured that justice would be served.
He emphasized the Edo State Government’s commitment to ensuring that such incidents do not recur and highlighted the importance of unity and mutual respect among Nigerians.
National Reactions and Calls for Justice
The lynching has elicited widespread condemnation across Nigeria. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed shock over the act and directed security agencies to conduct thorough investigations to apprehend and prosecute those responsible.
He emphasized that jungle justice has no place in Nigeria and that all citizens have the right to move freely within the country.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also condemned the killings, calling for justice to restore public confidence in the nation’s security institutions.
Similarly, the Northern Senators Forum described the incident as deeply disturbing and urged the Edo State Government to take immediate action to identify and prosecute the perpetrators.
Community and Traditional Leaders’ Responses
In Edo State, traditional rulers and community leaders have joined in condemning the act.
The Ojuromi of Uromi, Anselm Aidenojie II, visited the Hausa community alongside Governor Okpebholo during the burial of the victims.
He assured that security agencies are taking measures to prevent reprisals and emphasized that those responsible would be brought to justice.
Governor Okpebholo has also ordered the suspension of all vigilante groups in the state as part of efforts to prevent further occurrences.
The tragic lynching of 16 travelers in Uromi has highlighted the urgent need for strengthened community relations and adherence to the rule of law in Nigeria.
The swift actions by both federal and state authorities, alongside community leaders, demonstrate a collective commitment to justice and the prevention of future incidents.
As investigations continue, it is imperative for all stakeholders to work collaboratively to foster peace and unity across the nation.
