The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum has denounced the horrific murder of some northern visitors in Uromi, Edo State.
The victims, who were primarily Hausa hunters, were stopped by local vigilantes and Edo State Security Corps members as they were travelling to Kano to celebrate the celebrations of Sallah.
Shetima Yerima, the president general of the AYCF, released a statement in Kaduna on Friday, calling the incident a “horrifying display of mob injustice” driven by ignorance and unfounded charges.
In addition to demanding prompt and firm action against those involved, the AYCF called for thorough and quick investigations into the incident.
The AYCF also urged the Hausa community to remain calm and peaceful, resisting the temptation for retaliation and instead seeking justice through lawful means.
The statement reads, “We stand united in our outrage and condemnation of the horrific events that transpired on Thursday in the Udune Efandion community of Uromi, Edo State, where 16 innocent travellers from Northern Nigeria tragically lost their lives due to a horrifying display of mob injustice.
“We demand that the authorities take swift and decisive action against those responsible for inciting and participating in this heinous crime. It is imperative that justice is served not only for the victims and their grieving families but also to restore faith in our justice system, which must not be overshadowed by the lawlessness of a mob.
“We recognise the pain and anger that this incident has caused within the Hausa community in Uromi and beyond. However, we urge our brothers and sisters to remain calm and peaceful while also being vigilant. It is essential to resist the temptation for retaliation and instead seek justice through lawful means.”
According to Shettima, the forum stands ready to support the community in advocating for their rights and ensuring that such an atrocity is never repeated.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and call upon the relevant authorities to act swiftly in bringing the perpetrators of this mob injustice to justice. We must work together to build a society where dialogue and understanding prevail over violence and ignorance.
“The incident is a stark reminder of the dangers of mob violence and the need for justice and accountability.
“The AYCF is, however, calling for calm and urging the authorities to take swift action to address the situation,” the statement added.
