NHRC Calls for Justice for 16 Murdered Travelers, Urges Government to Prevent Future Attacks
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has demanded justice for 16 travelers who were brutally lynched last Thursday in Edo State. The commission is also urging the government to take strong measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
NHRC Condemns the Attack
In a press statement released in Abuja, NHRC Executive Secretary Tony Ojukwu expressed deep concern over the killings. He called for swift action to ensure those responsible are held accountable.
“We at the Commission demand that all the perpetrators be fished out and brought to justice. We also urge the government to take concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future. There is no justification for jungle justice anywhere in the world,” Ojukwu stated.
How the Tragedy Unfolded
The 16 victims, who were traveling from Rivers State to Kano for the Eid-el-Fitr celebration, were mistaken for kidnappers and attacked by local vigilantes. Reports indicate they were brutally beaten and set on fire along the Uromi/Obajana Expressway in Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.
Following the incident, the Nigerian Police announced the arrest of 14 suspects linked to the attack.
NHRC Highlights Human Rights Violations
The NHRC emphasized that the killings violated the victims’ rights to life and freedom of movement. Ojukwu reminded the government and the public that these rights are protected under Chapter 4 of the Nigerian Constitution, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
He also urged Nigerians to respect freedom of movement, which is guaranteed under both national and international laws.
National Outrage and Calls for Investigation
The attack has sparked widespread outrage across Nigeria. Several high-profile figures and organizations, including former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, Amnesty International, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and former presidential candidates Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, have all demanded a thorough investigation and justice for the victims.
Edo State Government’s Response
Reacting to the tragedy, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo took immediate action. He suspended the commander of the Edo State Security Corps, Friday Ibadin, a retired police commissioner, over the killings. The governor also banned all illegal vigilante groups operating in the state.
According to a statement from the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, the vigilante group responsible for the killings was operating illegally and was never registered with the Edo State Security Corps. Ikhilor stressed that their actions did not reflect the state’s security objectives.
Governor Okpebholo also visited the victims’ families in Kano State, pledging compensation and assuring them that justice would be served. He praised Kano residents for staying calm and avoiding any form of retaliation.
NHRC Commends Government Action
While urging the Edo State Government to continue its investigation, Ojukwu commended the governor for suspending the security commander and banning illegal vigilante groups. He reassured the public that the NHRC will closely monitor the case to ensure justice is served.
“We will continue to follow the inquiry to ensure those responsible face the full weight of the law. This must serve as a deterrent to others,” he said.
Ojukwu also emphasized the importance of human rights in national development, urging Nigerians to respect fundamental freedoms to build a more just society.
