By Niniola Yenetu
Kaduna – The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has strongly condemned the mob killing of 16 travelers in Udune Efandion, Uromi, Edo State, calling for immediate justice and accountability. The victims, mostly Hausa hunters traveling from Port Harcourt to Kano for the Sallah celebrations, were allegedly lynched over false accusations of kidnapping.
In a statement issued by AYCF President-General, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, the organization expressed deep sorrow over the tragic event, describing it as an inhumane act of lawlessness. According to Shettima, the victims were intercepted at about 1:30 p.m. by members of the Edo State Security Corps and local vigilantes before being handed over to an irate mob.
“This is a clear case of extrajudicial execution. Innocent Nigerians were falsely accused and subjected to mob violence in a most horrific manner. We condemn this in the strongest terms and demand that all those responsible be brought to justice,” Shettima stated.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that some of the victims were forcibly removed from their vehicle using wheelbarrows and thrown into flames, while others were burned inside the van. The AYCF described this as a terrifying escalation of mob justice, warning that failure to address such acts could deepen ethnic tensions and threaten national unity.
The group urged the government to immediately investigate the incident and ensure that the perpetrators face the full weight of the law. “Justice must be swift and decisive. This level of impunity must not be allowed to stand. If left unchecked, it will only encourage further bloodshed,” Shettima said.
While acknowledging the pain and anger within the Hausa community in Uromi and beyond, the AYCF appealed for calm and discouraged retaliatory actions. The group emphasized that the rule of law must prevail over emotions and urged affected communities to seek redress through lawful means.
“We understand the grief and outrage, but revenge is not the answer. The authorities must act now to ensure justice, and we will continue to push for accountability through legal and peaceful means,” Shettima reassured.
The AYCF reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the families of the victims and ensuring that such an atrocity does not happen again. It also called on security agencies to do more to curb the rising wave of mob violence across the country.
“Our heartfelt condolences go to the families of the victims. This tragedy should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to take firm action against mob killings. Every Nigerian, regardless of ethnicity, deserves the protection of the law,” Shettima stated.
The organization also urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community elders to intensify efforts in promoting peace and national unity. It cautioned against ethnic profiling and stereotyping, warning that such attitudes could further divide Nigerians.
The AYCF concluded by reaffirming its dedication to justice, peace, and national cohesion, stressing that Nigeria must not tolerate jungle justice in any form.
Middle-Belt Times 