Edo Governor Suspends Security Chief, Bans Illegal Vigilantes Over Uromi Killings
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has suspended the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (retd.), following the March 27 lynching of travellers in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of the state.
The victims, mostly from northern Nigeria, were set ablaze by an angry mob after a local vigilante group allegedly found firearms in their possession while travelling in a Dangote Cement truck.
Police rescued 10 others, while the deceased were buried on Saturday.
In a statement on Sunday, the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, confirmed Ibadin’s suspension and announced a ban on all unregistered vigilante groups in the state.
“It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that after a review of the preliminary report of the unfortunate incident of Thursday 27th March 2025 at Uromi in Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State involving the gruesome killing of some travellers, the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate suspension of all illegal vigilante groups operating under whatever guise in the State,” the statement read.
“Also suspended is the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (retd.).”
The government clarified that the vigilante group involved in the killings was unregistered.
“It is to be reiterated that the local vigilante group involved in the gruesome killing of 27th March was operating illegally as it was never profiled or registered with Edo State Security Corps,” the statement added.
“Its actions do not reflect the core values, character and principles of the Okpebholo administration, or the objectives of the corps as enshrined in the Edo State Security Corps Governance Law.”
The state government assured that investigations into the killings are ongoing, with 14 persons already arrested and an intense manhunt underway for others involved.
“The government of Edo State reiterates its belief in the constitutionally guaranteed rights of citizens to move freely or engage in lawful business in any part of the country,” the statement affirmed.
The state government also stated that it remains in contact with the victims’ families, community leaders, and the Kano State Government, where most of the deceased reportedly originated.
“We urge all parties involved to remain calm as the state government remains committed to ensuring that justice is done in a most efficient, transparent and proactive manner,” the statement concluded.
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