The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has strongly condemned the violent mob action carried out by a local vigilante group against a group of travelers along the Uromi-Obajana Road in Edo State.
In a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP described the incident as a violation of the rule of law and assured that those responsible would face the full force of the law.
The incident occurred when the travelers, who were transporting 19 locally fabricated firearms, were intercepted by the vigilante group. The travelers claimed to be hunters, but the vigilantes, unconvinced by their explanation, accused them of being kidnappers. Without allowing for proper investigation or due process, the vigilantes resorted to mob justice, subjecting some of the travelers to violent assault, which resulted in tragic consequences.
In a swift response, the Edo State Police Command deployed operatives to the affected community to restore law and order. The police have so far arrested 14 suspects linked to the mob attack, while a manhunt has been launched to apprehend other perpetrators still at large.
To ensure a thorough and impartial investigation, the IGP has directed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), DIG Sadiq Abubakar, to take over the case. He tasked the FCID with conducting an expedited investigation to uncover the facts behind the incident and bring all those involved to justice.
In his statement, the IGP emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all citizens. He warned that acts of jungle justice and extrajudicial actions would not be tolerated under any circumstances. “The Nigeria Police Force will not stand by while citizens take the law into their own hands. All individuals found culpable in this unfortunate incident will face the full weight of the law,” he stated.
Furthermore, the IGP reiterated that the unlawful possession of firearms remains a criminal offense under Nigerian law. He advised individuals in possession of unlicensed firearms to immediately report to the nearest police station to surrender such weapons or begin the appropriate licensing process.
Egbetokun appealed to the public to remain calm and cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation. He stressed the importance of resolving disputes and handling security matters through lawful channels rather than resorting to vigilante action. “Security is a collective responsibility, and the cooperation of citizens is crucial in ensuring peace and stability in our communities,” he added.
Adejobi, also warned the public to desist from taking the law into their hands. He urged citizens to promptly report any suspicious activity to law enforcement agencies to prevent further escalation of violence.
The IGP’s firm stance reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to maintaining law and order, protecting human rights, and ensuring that justice is served in line with constitutional provisions.
