Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has demanded the public parade of the suspected killers of the 16 hunters and compensation for their families.
The governor issued the demand during his Edo counterpart, Monday Okpebholo’s, condolence visit to Kano on Monday.
The visit comes just 48 hours after the hunters’ remains, who were lynched by a mob, were interred in Uromi, Edo State, on Saturday.
Members of the Hausa community gathered at the village graveyard to pay their final respects to the victims, who were burnt to death last Thursday after being suspected of kidnapping.
The hunters were travelling in a vehicle when they were stopped by a vigilante group, and 16 of them were killed while 10 fled.
Yusuf, who hosted Okpebholo at the Kano Government House, called the attack disturbing and emphasised Nigeria’s concern for human life.
“This cowardly act contradicts the fundamental principles of our society, which are deeply rooted in both Islamic and Christian teachings.
“So far, 14 suspects have been arrested in connection with the killings. As Kano remains dear to my heart, we will continue to uphold the value of being our brother’s keeper,” he said.
Speaking on possible reprisals by northerners, the governor said, “We have implemented strong security measures to prevent any reprisal attacks. We also urge that those arrested be publicly paraded to bring relief to the victims’ families and to ensure accountability.’’
“I call on Gov. Okpebholo to ensure that the families of the victims receive fair compensation for their loss. I also commend President Tinubu for his prompt response and commitment to justice by directing security agencies to pursue the perpetrators,” he noted.
Earlier, Okpebholo decried the violent slaughter of hunters in Udune, Uromi Local Government Area of the state, calling the incident barbaric and unjust.
“I was deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident. Upon my arrival, I met with my Hausa brothers, who had generously supported me during my election campaign,” Okpebholo said.
He also stated that President Bola Tinubu had directed the Inspector-General of Police and other security agencies to track down the perpetrators and ensure they faced justice.
“We have implemented robust security measures to hold all those involved accountable. Security agencies have already launched investigations to bring the culprits to justice,” he assured.
