Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, paid a condolence visit to his Kano State counterpart, Abba Yusuf, on Monday following the tragic killing of 16 Kano-bound travellers in Uromi, Edo State.
Arriving at the Kano Government House around noon, Okpebholo was warmly received by Yusuf and other top government officials.
During the visit, he expressed deep sorrow over the incident, which saw members of a local vigilante group mistakenly attack the travellers, believing them to be criminals.
The victims, identified as hunters travelling from Port Harcourt to Kano for Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, were ambushed in Esan North-East Local Government Area, sparking outrage across the country.
Speaking at the meeting, Okpebholo condemned the killings, describing them as a heartbreaking tragedy.
READ ALSO: Okpebholo orders full-scale investigation into killing of seven in Uromi
He reassured the families of the deceased and the people of Kano that justice would be swiftly served.
He further disclosed that 14 suspects had been arrested and transferred to Abuja for interrogation.
Governor Yusuf, in his response, insisted that those responsible must be publicly identified and brought to justice.
He emphasised Kano’s long-standing reputation as a peaceful state that welcomes people from all backgrounds.
Thanking Okpebholo for his prompt visit, Yusuf called for the immediate prosecution of the perpetrators to prevent future occurrences.
Both leaders also visited Toronkawa village in Bunkure Local Government Area, where they reiterated the need for unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
Meanwhile, the attack has drawn widespread condemnation, with President Bola Tinubu directing security agencies to swiftly investigate and ensure the culprits face the full weight of the law.
READ ALSO: Okpebholo orders full-scale investigation into killing of seven in Uromi
“The President was deeply shocked by this senseless act of violence and has ordered security operatives to take immediate action in apprehending those responsible,” presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga said on Friday.
