Uromi Killings Scandal: Kano State Government’s Dramatic Response Sparks National Outrage

Speaking on the findings of a high-level Kano State delegation’s visit to Edo, Deputy Governor Comrade Aminu Abdussalam expressed relief over the decisive measures taken to bring the perpetrators to justice. “It took us almost two hours to travel from Benin to Uromi, where we were warmly greeted by a large crowd awaiting our arrival,” Abdussalam said, highlighting the heartfelt reception they received.

He emphasized the positive atmosphere of peaceful coexistence between the Hausa community and other ethnic groups in Uromi, noting that political, religious, and traditional leaders had all strongly condemned the brutal killings. “This tragic incident has been met with widespread condemnation. The traditional and religious leaders were vocal and forceful in denouncing the perpetrators,” he stated.

Abdussalam confirmed that both the leadership in Edo State and Uromi Kingdom had unequivocally rejected the killings and were committed to preserving peace and unity. “We are convinced that all leaders in Edo State and Uromi Kingdom strongly oppose what happened, condemned it in the strongest terms, and have taken steps to calm the people of Edo,” he remarked.

He also relayed assurances from the Edo State Government that all Nigerians, including those from Kano and the North, are welcome to live and do business in the state without fear of discrimination or hostility. “The government has made it clear that Uromi and Edo State will continue to welcome people from all regions of the country, particularly from the North and Kano State. They harbor no ill will toward anyone, and the peaceful coexistence will continue,” Abdussalam affirmed.

The Deputy Governor stressed that Edo’s leadership reaffirmed the right of every Nigerian to live and work anywhere in the country without fear of harassment. “The reception and the statements we received in Benin and Uromi demonstrate their determination to prevent such incidents from happening again,” he added.

On the investigation, Abdussalam confirmed that 14 individuals had been arrested, with more still at large. “The Governor, Pastor Monday Okpebholo, has disbanded the vigilante group. The key suspects have been apprehended, and efforts to arrest the others continue,” he said.

He also disclosed that Governor Okpebholo had requested the transfer of the state’s Commissioner of Police in response to the incident. Additionally, Abdussalam announced that compensation would be provided for the victims, particularly those who lost their lives or possessions. “The Governor has assured us that victims’ families will be compensated for the lives lost and the belongings destroyed during the incident,” he concluded.

The Kano delegation’s visit reinforced the commitment to ensuring justice, fostering national unity, and preventing such tragedies from occurring in the future.