The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has suspended the activities of illegal vigilante groups and the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (retired), following the recent killing of 16 hunters in Uromi.
In a statement released on Sunday, March 30, by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, the governor clarified that the vigilante group involved in the tragic incident was operating without legal authorization.
He noted that neither the members of the group nor their activities had been officially registered or profiled under the Edo State Security Corps.
Furthermore, Governor Okpebholo emphasized that the actions of the vigilante group on March 27 were not in alignment with the fundamental values and legal framework governing security operations in the state, particularly the Edo Security Corps Governance Law.
“It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that after a review of the preliminary report of the unfortunate incident of Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Uromi in Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State, involving the gruesome killing of some travelers, the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate suspension of all illegal vigilante groups operating under whatever guise in the state.
“Also suspended is the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (rtd.),” the statement read.
The statement further reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of citizens, ensuring their freedom of movement, and safeguarding their ability to conduct lawful business activities without fear of intimidation or harm.
