President Bola Tinubu, in a statement on Friday has directed Edo state government and other security agencies to conduct swift and thorough investigations into the mob killing of nothing less than seven northern travelers in Uromi, alleged to be kidnappers.

The victims, reported to be Hausa haunters were travelling to Kano to celebrate the incoming Salah festivities, in a Dangote Cement truck when they were accosted around 1.30pm in Udune Efandion community by local security.

A search of the vehicle uncovered guns, triggering a mob attack by residents who accused them of being kidnappers and Fulani herdsmen.

In the viral disturbing video, the victims could be heard wailing and pleading for their lives as the crowd beat and set them ablaze.

The President, who expressed shock at the dastardly act, commiserated with the families of the affected victims and assured them that the criminals would be brought to book.

“The President noted that jungle justice has no place in Nigeria, and all Nigerians have the freedom to move freely in any part of the country,” the statement read.

The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo who condemned the mob killing pledged to prosecute those responsible to the fullest extent of the law.

The governor said, “I can assure you that those involved in this unprovoked attack will not go scot-free, as His Excellency has directed the Commissioner of Police to launch a full-scale investigation into the matter. As we speak, over four persons have been arrested for their involvement in this ugly incident.

“The commissioner of police has been directed to launch a full scale investigation into the matter,” Okpebholo said in a statement, adding that at least four people have been arrested for their involvement in the attack.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, in a statement on his verified X handle on Friday, stressed that the protection of lives must remain a top priority at all levels of government.

He wrote, “I am deeply saddened by reports of the tragic killing of some hunters in Edo State. My heartfelt condolences go out to their families and loved ones.

“This unfortunate incident demands a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation to uncover the truth and ensure that those responsible are brought to book. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done to restore public confidence in our security institutions.”

The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party and former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, in a statement described the unlawful killing as “deeply saddening.”

Obi stressed that mob justice posed a significant threat to societal stability and called on security agencies to intensify efforts in curbing such lawless actions.

In his words: “Reports indicate that these individuals were accused of being kidnappers, leading to their brutal murder by a mob. While addressing security concerns and combating criminal activities is crucial, resorting to extrajudicial measures undermines the rule of law and exacerbates the cycle of violence.

“I commend the government for condemning this incident and initiating an investigation. Furthermore, the authorities should also address the killings of Edo indigenes to ensure that justice is served for all,” he added.

Also a former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, in a Facebook post called on the authorities initiate a thorough investigation and hold the perpetrators accountable.

He wrote, “I am concerned by the harrowing display of mob injustice on 16 travellers from Northern Nigeria in Edo State. This tragedy, which unfolded on March 27, 2025, in the Udune Efandion community of Uromi, is another sad reminder of the barbarity of jungle justice.”

Omoyele Sowore the 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) condemned the action and asked for justice to be serve

In his words: “Yesterday, some northerners returning home for Sallah celebrations were reportedly stopped by vigilantes in Edo State and, without warning and due diligence, profiled and announced to be deadly “Fulani herdsmen” and kidnappers.

“A deadly mob descended on them and burnt them, most of them alive after they’d been severely beaten; I condemn the mob justice visited on these innocent citizens and ask that security agents fish out and punish those involved as well as policemen and women who refused to save these innocent men from the mob, they acted negligently. There is no sane society that should tolerate this inhumane act of bestiality” Sowore added.

The son of the former governor of Kaduna state and Member Kaduna North Federal Constituency Chairman, Committee on Banking Regulations Mohammed Bello El-Rufai espressed sadness and described the action as barbaric, calling on the state government to the needful stating “it’s a Nigeria tragedy

El-Rufai wrote: “I am deeply heartbroken by the brutal killing of innocent hunters in Uromi, Edo State. These men, simply going about their lawful business, were falsely accused, attacked, and burned alive in an act of sheer barbarism. Jungle justice has no place in any civilized society, and this tragic incident underscores the urgent need to address mob violence and ethnic profiling in our country.

“I call on the Federal Government and the Edo State Government to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are swiftly brought to justice. Security agencies must act decisively to prevent further occurrences, and Nigerians must understand that suspicion is not proof of guilt. We cannot allow a breakdown of law and order where anyone can be targeted and killed based on mere assumption. To the families of the victims, I extend my heartfelt condolences.

“This is not just a northern tragedy—it is a Nigerian tragedy. I urge all Nigerians to remain calm but resolute in demanding justice. We must stand together to end jungle justice and ensure that no citizen, regardless of tribe or religion, suffers such a fate again.” He added.