The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has strongly condemned the brutal killing of 16 travelers in Edo State, vowing that those responsible for the heinous act will face the full wrath of the law.
In a statement released yesterday by the Director Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, General Musa described the incident as a “dastardly act” that could have been prevented through proper channels of verification.
“The unfortunate killing of hunters while in transit in Edo State could have been avoided if the appropriate authorities were notified and involved in ascertaining the identity of the victims,” the CDS stated.
The tragic incident occurred last Thursday in Uromi, Edo State, where a mob attacked and killed 16 hunters who were reportedly returning to their home states from Rivers to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr with their families.
General Musa extended his heartfelt condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the bereaved families while issuing a stern warning against citizens taking the law into their own hands.
“Nigerians should not take laws into their hands but always revert to constituted authorities in matters that affect security. The Nigeria Police, military, and other security agencies are well trained to handle such matters,” he emphasized.
The CDS assured the public that the Armed Forces of Nigeria would collaborate closely with the police and other relevant security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice.
In a bid to prevent similar occurrences, General Musa directed that “all local hunters and vigilante groups should register with the police, DSS, AFN and any other agencies mandated by law to regulate the possession of firearms,” while urging vigilante groups to always refer security matters to the police for appropriate action.
The Defense Chief called for calm across the nation while soliciting citizens’ continued support for security agencies in the discharge of their constitutional duties.
The killing has sparked widespread condemnation from northern groups, state governments, and federal lawmakers, with many calling for swift justice and measures to prevent such intercommunal violence in the future.
