The leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has strongly cautioned against any attempt to associate the Igbo community with the tragic killing of 16 hunters in Uromi, Edo State.
In a statement released on Sunday, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, emphasized that the Igbo people had no involvement in the unfortunate incident and should not be wrongfully implicated.
Reports indicate that 16 hunters traveling from Rivers State to Kano State for the Eid celebration were lynched in Edo State after being suspected of engaging in criminal activities. The attack was allegedly carried out by local vigilante operatives who intercepted the travelers and discovered weapons, including guns and daggers, in their possession.
The gruesome incident has sparked widespread condemnation, prompting the Nigerian president to order an immediate investigation and the arrest of those responsible for the killings. In response, the Northern Elders Forum has issued a strong demand for the Edo State government to compensate the families of the victims.
Addressing the situation, Isiguzoro called on leaders across the country to take proactive steps in educating and informing their communities to prevent misinformation and unnecessary tension. He stressed the importance of making it clear that Uromi, where the incident occurred, is located in Edo State, a South-South region of Nigeria, and is not part of Igboland.
“We urge these leaders to take decisive action in educating and informing their communities, particularly the impressionable youth, that Uromi, located in the Esan North Local Government Area of Edo State, is neither part of Igboland nor associated with the Igbo people. The citizens of Uromi predominantly belong to the Esan ethnic group and should not be misidentified as Igbo,” he stated.
Isiguzoro further condemned any attempt to falsely attribute the actions of the perpetrators to the Igbo people, describing such claims as misleading and dangerous.
“In light of these events, Ohanaeze Ndigbo vehemently cautions against any potential reprisals aimed at Igbo individuals or communities residing in the Northern region. We stand in solidarity with Northern leaders and the grieving families of the victims, mourning their loss with sincerity and compassion. It is crucial that we collectively condemn violence in all its forms, irrespective of the ethnic identities involved,” he added.
He called on the government at all levels, along with relevant security agencies, to act swiftly in addressing the rising tensions and ensuring that justice is served. Additionally, he urged authorities to reinforce measures that promote peace and prevent retaliatory violence, thereby preserving national unity and harmony.
The tragic event in Edo State underscores the need for a strengthened security framework and improved community engagement to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives, it is imperative for all ethnic groups and regions to work together in fostering peace and ensuring that justice prevails.
