BREAKING: Edo Suspends Corps Commander, Others
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate suspension of the Edo State Security Corps Commander, CP. Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), and all illegal vigilante groups operating in the state.
This came after a preliminary report on the gruesome killing of travellers in Uromi on March 27, 2025.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government on Sunday, Umar Musa Ikhilor.
The statement further said that investigations into the killings are ongoing, and fourteen persons have been arrested so far.
It added that a special team set up by the Inspector General of Police will continue to manhunt for others involved in the gruesome killing.
Ikhilor stated that the government is also in touch with the families of the victims, community leaders, and the government of Kano State, where most of the deceased hail from, and assured that justice will be served.
The statement says, “It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that after a review of the preliminary report of the unfortunate incident of Thursday, 27th March, 2025, at Uromi in Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State involving the gruesome killing of some travellers, the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate suspension of all illegal vigilante groups operating under whatever guise in the state. Also suspended is the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (Rtd.).
“It is to be reiterated that the local vigilante group involved in the gruesome killing on March 27 was operating illegally, as it was never profiled or registered with the Edo State Security Corps. Its actions do not reflect the core values, character, and principles of the Okpebholo administration or the objectives of the corps as enshrined in the Edo State Security Corps Governance Law.
“Investigations into the killings are on-going, and fourteen (14) persons have been arrested so far, while there is an intense manhunt for others involved in the gruesome killing by a special team set up by the Inspector General of Police.
“The Government of Edo State reiterates its belief in the constitutionally guaranteed rights of citizens to move freely or engage in lawful business in any part of the country.
“In the meantime, the government is in touch with the families of the victims, community leaders, and the government of Kano State, where most of the deceased are reported to hail from.
“We urge all parties involved to remain calm as the state government remains committed to ensuring that justice is done in a most efficient, transparent, and proactive manner.”
