The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, on Sunday, sternly condemned the killing of 16 hunters in Edo State, vowing that the perpetrators will be brought to book.
The CDS assured, as the Edo State administration stated, that Governor Monday Okpehbolo has informed the victims’ relatives, the state’s Hausa community leaders, and the northern governors about the incident.
Police have arrested around 14 people in connection with the sad tragedy.
Last Thursday, a mob massacred the hunters in Uromi, Edo State, as they travelled to Kano from Rivers State to celebrate Eid with their families.
The incident was claimed to have occurred when the truck transporting them was halted by a vigilante group, and the guys discovered with Dane guns were lynched by the interceptors who mistook them for kidnappers.
No less than 16 people were set on fire, with 10 saved by police. Those killed in the event were buried on Saturday.
The incident has been widely denounced by northern organisations, state administrations, and legislators.
It read, “Gen. Christopher Musa has condemned in strong terms the unfortunate killing of hunters while in transit in Edo State. The incident, which occurred on 28 March 2025, could have been avoided if the appropriate authorities had been notified and involved in ascertaining the identity of the victims.
“Gen Musa condoled with the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the families of those who lost their lives.”
He also urged residents to avoid taking the law into their own hands and instead turn to security forces for conflict resolution.
Musa told Nigerians that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will work with the police and other security services to ensure justice is served.
The statement added, “The CDS also urged Nigerians not to take laws into their hands but always revert to constituted authority in matters that affect security. The Nigeria Police, military, and other security agencies are well trained to handle such matters.
“The Chief of Defence Staff assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will work closely with the police and other relevant security agencies to bring the perpetrators of the dastardly act to book.”
He also urged residents to avoid taking the law into their own hands and instead turn to security forces for conflict resolution.
Musa told Nigerians that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will work with the police and other security services to ensure justice is served.
