- Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State visited Torankawa village, the home town of the 16 hunters killed in Uromi
- He condemned the killings and assured compensation for their families
- Okpebholo then pledged to ensure those responsible were punished
The governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has pledged full compensation to the families of the 16 hunters killed in Uromi and assured them of the government's support during this tragic time.
The governor made this promise on Monday, March 31, during a condolence visit to Torankawa village in Bunkure Local Government Area, accompanied by Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and other high-ranking dignitaries.
Governor Okpebholo’s visit and pledge of support
Governor Okpebholo, who was visibly moved by the brutal killings, expressed deep sorrow for the victims and their families. He assured the bereaved families that they would receive full compensation, which would include cash donations and food aid to help them cope with their loss.
“We are with you during this trying time. The state government will ensure that justice is served, and we will support you fully with compensation and resources to ease the burden you are bearing,” Okpebholo said during his visit to the village.
His words were met with appreciation and thanks from the affected families and the local community.
The Governor strongly condemned the killings, describing them as a heinous act that would not be tolerated.
“We will ensure that justice is served on those responsible for this brutal act,” Okpebholo vowed, further assuring the villagers that the state would take all necessary actions to ensure the perpetrators were held accountable for their actions.
The tragic deaths of the 16 hunters in Uromi have sparked widespread outrage, especially as many in the community feel that such attacks on innocent civilians must not be allowed to continue unchecked.
In response to the killings, hundreds of family members, hunters, and local supporters took to the streets in a peaceful protest, demanding justice for the victims.
The protesters marched along the road leading to Torankawa village, carrying placards with inscriptions such as “We demand justice for the killings of our people,” “Hunters are not criminals,” and “We demand the speedy dispensation of justice in this matter.”
Many of the hunters who participated in the protest were visibly agitated and armed with their traditional hunting weapons, such as bows and arrows, as they joined the demonstration.
The protest remained peaceful, despite the strong emotions displayed by the participants, who were determined to ensure their voices were heard.
Other placards bore powerful messages such as “Killings in the North must stop,” “Northerners are peace-loving citizens,” and “Justice must prevail.”
Some hunters were seen chanting war songs as they expressed their anger at the situation, while others called for stronger protection of rural communities from violence and injustice.
Governor Okpebholo has promised that the state government will ensure those responsible for the killings are brought to justice swiftly. He has also reiterated the need for an immediate investigation into the incident.
As the investigation continues, the families of the victims and the local community are holding on to the hope that justice will be served and that the state government will follow through on its promises to support the affected families.
The demonstration, though peaceful, highlighted the deep emotional toll of the killings on the local community.
The families of the victims, along with supporters and fellow hunters, continue to demand accountability and justice, insisting that such a tragic event should not be swept under the rug.
Cultists to get 21-year prison sentence in Edo if nabbed
Earlier, TheRadar reported that Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo signed a new law on Tuesday, January 28, that mandated a 21-year prison sentence for individuals involved in cult activities, including their sponsors.
The law, which replaced an earlier version, aimed to impose stricter penalties on those participating in or supporting cult groups.
Umar Ikhllor, the Secretary to the State Government, emphasised that the revised legislation was introduced to strengthen the state’s efforts in combating cultism and ensuring public safety.
