In a move that underscores leadership and compassion, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has traveled to Kano State to personally console the families of victims brutally murdered in Uromi, Edo State.
The attack, which shocked the nation, claimed the lives of several individuals, many of whom hailed from Bankure Local Government Area of Kano State.
During his visit, Governor Okpebholo assured the grieving families and the entire people of Kano that justice would be swift and unwavering.
“I was deeply shaken when I received the news in the dead of night,” he recounted.
“By 4 a.m., I left Abuja and rushed to Uromi to meet with the affected families. Your people stood with me during my campaign, and today, I stand with you in this moment of grief. I extend my heartfelt condolences and pray for the eternal rest of the victims’ souls.”
The Governor revealed that security agencies had made significant progress in investigating the attack. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is as disturbed by this incident as we all are. He has directed security forces to bring the culprits to book, and I assure you, justice will prevail,” he declared.
“Already, 14 suspects have been arrested, and after the holidays, they will be transferred to Abuja for further interrogation. More arrests will follow as investigations continue.”
His swift intervention drew praise from Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, who commended Okpebholo for his decisive leadership.
“We are grateful for the prompt response of the Edo State Government,” Governor Yusuf stated. “It is well known that our people were returning from Port Harcourt when they were brutally attacked. Governor Okpebholo’s immediate action in ensuring that their bodies were retrieved and properly buried is commendable.
He has also supported the affected families, and I confirm that he has kept his promises.”
The visit also served as a reminder of the deep-rooted ties between the northern community and the people of Edo State.
Badamasi Sally, a leader of the Arewa community in Edo, emphasized that the incident should not be used to sow division.
“I was born and raised in Edo State, and we have always coexisted peacefully,” he said. “This unfortunate event must not be used to tarnish the state’s reputation. In fact, it was the people of Uromi who risked their lives to rescue some of the victims. The unity between our communities remains unshaken.”
Similarly, Fred Akhigbe, leader of the Edo community in Kano, urged both communities to remain united and allow the law to take its course.
“When this tragedy happened, there was fear and apprehension, but we are reassured by the swift action of both governors,” he noted.
“We sympathize with the people of Kano and pray for the victims. I have lived in Kano for 52 years, and we must remember that we are all one. Violence and division are not the answer.”
Governor Okpebholo’s visit and firm stance against impunity signal a commitment to justice and national unity.
The Edo State Government has assured that no effort will be spared in ensuring that those responsible for this heinous crime face the full wrath of the law.