By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
Amnesty International has called for an immediate and transparent investigation into the brutal lynching of at least 16 travelers in Uromi, Edo State.
The victims, who were hunters traveling from Rivers State to Kano to celebrate Eid with their families, were attacked by a vigilante group and armed youths on Tuesday.
According to reports, the victims’ vehicle was blocked, and they were dragged out one by one, beaten, tied to used tires, doused with petrol, and set ablaze.
Disturbing videos of the incident show the victims pleading for mercy while onlookers cheered as the attackers used axes, iron rods, and machetes.
Amnesty International condemned the killings, urging Nigerian authorities to go beyond mere condemnation and ensure the perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted.
The rights group noted that the failure to punish mob violence has emboldened vigilantes to take the law into their own hands.
This incident is part of a rising trend of highway attacks by vigilante groups in rural areas, often carried out with impunity.
Amnesty International stressed that the government must take decisive action to prevent such violence, equip secure justice for victims.
The Nigerian police have yet to issue a detailed statement on arrests or ongoing investigations.