By Sabiu Abdullahi
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has pledged to compensate the families of 16 hunters who were allegedly killed by a vigilante group in Uromi, Edo State.
The victims were reportedly traveling to Kano when the incident occurred.
Governor Okpebholo made this commitment while visiting the bereaved families in Torankawa, Kano State, alongside his Kano counterpart, Abba Yusuf.
“We are making arrangements to provide compensation to all the victims affected by this incident,” Okpebholo stated.
He commended the people of Kano for maintaining peace despite the tragedy.
“I also commend the good people of Kano State and the entire north for not taking the law into their own hands and carrying out reprisal attacks,” he said.
The governor prayed for the departed souls and reassured the families that justice would be served.
“We are here to commiserate with the families of the dead. We assure you that the perpetrators will be brought to justice.
“May Almighty God forgive the souls of the victims and reward them with paradise,” he added.
Okpebholo disclosed that several arrests had been made in connection with the killings.
“About 14 suspects have been arrested already; we will pursue the case until its logical conclusion.
“We are making arrangements to provide compensation to all the families affected by this incident,” he reaffirmed.
Governor Yusuf also expressed his commitment to ensuring justice and offering support to the victims’ families.
“We are working closely with my counterpart, Governor Okpebholo, to ensure that all those arrested are prosecuted.
“We will also ensure full compensation for all the affected victims,” he said.
Additionally, Yusuf announced financial and material assistance for the grieving families.”I pledged cash and food items to the families of victims,” he stated.
He noted that the government would not relent in seeking justice and providing relief for those affected by the tragedy.