The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum has condemned the brutal killing of some Northern travellers in Uromi, Edo State.
The victims, mostly Hausa hunters, were on their way to Kano to celebrate the Sallah festivities when members of the Edo State Security Corps and local vigilantes intercepted them.
In a statement issued by the AYCF President General, Shetima Yerima, in Kaduna on Friday, the forum described the incident as a “horrifying display of mob injustice” fueled by false accusations and ignorance.
The AYCF demanded immediate and thorough investigations into the tragedy, calling for swift and decisive action against those responsible.
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.