The House of Representatives has strongly condemned the gruesome killing of 16 travellers in Uromi, Edo State, describing the act as barbaric, inhumane, and a gross violation of human rights.
The travellers, reportedly of northern origin, were attacked on Friday when their vehicle was set ablaze by an irate mob. The tragic incident has sparked national outrage, with calls for swift justice.
In a statement released on Saturday, the spokesperson of the House, Rep. Akin Rotimi, reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to ensuring that those responsible for the attack are apprehended and prosecuted.
“We acknowledge the directives of President Bola Tinubu and Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, instructing security agencies to launch an urgent and thorough investigation. The House calls for immediate action to ensure that all perpetrators—whether directly involved or complicit—are identified, arrested, and made to face the full weight of the law,” the statement read.
The House commended the prompt response of security agencies, which led to the rescue of some survivors and the arrest of suspects. However, lawmakers insisted that justice must not only be swift but comprehensive to serve as a deterrent to future occurrences of mob violence.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, also condemned the killings in strong terms, labeling them “barbaric, cowardly, and unacceptable.” He stressed that such acts have no place in a democratic society where the sanctity of human life is upheld.
“It is deeply disturbing that in our nation, fellow citizens can be subjected to such heinous violence, especially when our religious and cultural values teach us to respect and protect human life,” Abbas stated.
He further urged Nigerians to exercise restraint and refrain from actions that could escalate ethnic or communal tensions.
Beyond seeking justice for the victims, the Speaker noted that the tragic incident highlights the urgent need for a national dialogue on mob violence, extrajudicial killings, and ethnic profiling—issues that continue to threaten Nigeria’s peace and unity.
In a bid to prevent future occurrences, the House called on security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, enhance response mechanisms, and implement proactive measures to curb mob justice across the country.
It also urged community leaders, religious institutions, and traditional rulers to foster mutual understanding and promote tolerance, while calling on civil society organizations and the media to intensify awareness on civic responsibility and the dangers of taking the law into one’s hands.
The House further cautioned Nigerians against engaging in acts of jungle justice, warning that such lawlessness undermines democracy and weakens social cohesion.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims. We stand in solidarity with all who seek justice and peace. As representatives of the people, we remain resolute in our duty to protect the fundamental rights of every Nigerian and ensure that no act of lawlessness goes unpunished,” the statement concluded.
