In response to the recent killings of several hunters in Uromi, Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo has announced the establishment of a fact-finding committee by the federal government (FG), in collaboration with the state government, to investigate the incident.
Fred Itua, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, disclosed this in a statement, noting that Okpebholo made the announcement yesterday while receiving a high-level delegation from Kano State, led by the Deputy Governor, Abdulsalam Gwarzo, at the Government House in Benin City.
According to the governor, President Bola Tinubu is deeply concerned about the events in Uromi and is committed to ensuring that both the state and the nation remain safe for all citizens and residents to live and conduct business.
“This incident has been an eye-opener, and we are determined to address many of the pressing issues affecting our country, especially those that compromise our safety and well-being.
“The President is disheartened by what transpired and has mandated us to pursue justice to its logical conclusion,” he said.
“The President is personally invested in resolving this matter. I would also like to inform you that both the Federal and Edo State Governments have constituted a committee to uncover the root causes of this unfortunate event and to develop long-lasting solutions.
“The report you have presented will greatly assist us, so we do not need to trouble you further. Much will be done, and the public will be duly informed of the committee’s progress and findings.
“We in Edo State are peace-loving people. We value all who live among us. Edo and Kano States have enjoyed a longstanding partnership, particularly in the areas of commerce and industry,” he added.
Deputy Governor Gwarzo expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for his earlier visit to Kano, stating that their delegation was in Edo to appreciate the governor’s conciliatory approach following the Uromi incident.
“The Governor of Kano State established a committee to screen and verify the identities of those affected—to determine names, numbers, next of kin, and survivors. We have completed this process and compiled a report, which we are here to present to Your Excellency.
“You gave us your word that justice would be served, and we trust in your commitment, Mr Governor. We seek a transparent and credible process in resolving this matter. Sixteen people from five local government areas in Kano State lost their lives in the attack,” he said.
In attendance during the visit were the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dennis Idahosa; the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku; heads of security agencies in the state; senior government officials from both Kano and Edo States, among others.
Governor Okpebholo and the Kano delegation also visited Uromi, where they met with members of the Hausa community in the area.
