Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has suspended the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), and ordered the immediate ban on all illegal vigilante groups following the gruesome killing of hunters traveling back to the North in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area.
The governor’s decision, announced in a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhikor Esq., comes in response to public outrage over the killings. The statement also confirmed that 14 suspects have been arrested so far, while security operatives continue to track other perpetrators.
“After a review of the preliminary report on the unfortunate incident of Thursday, March 27, 2025, His Excellency has ordered the immediate suspension of all illegal vigilante groups operating under any guise in Edo State. Also suspended is the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.),” the statement read.
Authorities clarified that the vigilante group responsible for the attack was never profiled or registered with the Edo State Security Corps, making its activities illegal.
The state government assured the public that investigations are ongoing and that a special team set up by the Inspector General of Police is handling the case to ensure justice is served.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed the state’s commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of all citizens, including the freedom of movement and lawful business operations, regardless of ethnic or regional background.
The Edo government has also reached out to the families of the victims, community leaders, and the Kano State Government, as most of the deceased were from Kano.
“We urge all parties to remain calm as the state government remains committed to ensuring that justice is done in a most efficient, transparent, and proactive manner,” the statement added.
The governor’s decisive action signals a strong stance against illegal security operations, reinforcing efforts to restore public trust in the state’s security framework.
