Speaker Abbas Deplores Murder of 16 Travelers in Edo, Demands Urgent Investigation
The Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, has expressed profound sorrow and strong condemnation over the tragic killing of 16 hunters in the Udune Efandion community of Uromi Local Government Area, Edo State.
According to reports, the hunters — traveling from Port Harcourt to Kano for Sallah celebrations — were falsely accused of kidnapping by local elements. In a shocking act of mob violence captured on video and widely circulated, the attackers set the 16 men ablaze in broad daylight.
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Speaker Abbas described the incident as “barbaric, cowardly, and unacceptable.”
The Speaker called on the security agencies to initiate an immediate and thorough investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible.
“The security agencies must swing into action immediately as directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This is one madness too many. We must not allow such a horrific act to go unpunished.”
He emphasized that such brutal acts are incomprehensible in a society that upholds the sanctity of human life, a value deeply rooted in both Islamic and Christian teachings.
He said at a time when adherents of both religions observe Ramadan and Lent — periods dedicated to reflection, compassion, and mutual duty — the lives of our fellow citizens must be protected and respected above all.
He stated: “It is deeply disturbing that in our modern nation, fellow citizens can be subjected to such heinous violence, especially when our faith traditions teach us to honor the sanctity of every human life.
“This is one of the worst cowardly acts I have seen in decades,” the Speaker said.
By invoking the moral imperatives common to Islam and Christianity, the Speaker noted that all Nigerians, regardless of their religious affiliation, are bound by a shared duty to care for one another.
“Nigerians, irrespective of their tribe or creed, should be able to move freely anywhere within the country without let or hindrance.”
While investigations are underway, Speaker Abbas urged calm and restraint.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and reaffirms the government’s commitment to upholding justice, the rule of law, and the fundamental human values celebrated during Ramadan and Lent.