By Abdullahi Alhassan Kaduna
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has praised Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State for his swift and decisive response to the brutal killing of travelers in Uromi, Edo State, on March 27, 2025. The victims, from Bankure Local Government Area of Kano State, were murdered by an illegal vigilante group operating outside the state's official security framework.
In a statement, CISLAC's Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, expressed strong support for Governor Okpebholo's actions. The governor visited the bereaved families in Kano State, offering condolences and assuring them of his commitment to justice. He also suspended all vigilante groups in Edo State and the Edo State Security Corps Commander, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), after discovering the vigilante group responsible was operating illegally.
CISLAC commended the governor for taking a firm stance on ensuring security organizations operate within legal frameworks, upholding citizens' rights. "We commend the swift investigation by the Edo State government, which has already led to the arrest of 14 suspects, and we welcome the assurance from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that security agencies are working tirelessly to ensure justice is served," the statement reads.
The organization applauded Governor Okpebholo's commitment to ensuring justice for the victims and their families, emphasizing that perpetrators will be apprehended and prosecuted. CISLAC also hailed the collaboration between the Edo and Kano State governments as an exemplary model for Nigerian leaders, showcasing unity, compassion, and decisive leadership during times of tragedy.
"This tragedy should serve as a reminder of the need for strong leadership and cross-regional solidarity," the statement continues. CISLAC acknowledged Governor Okpebholo's efforts as a significant step in fostering peace and solidarity between Nigeria's northern and southern regions, particularly when incidents can easily sow division.
The organization commended the people of Edo State, especially those in Uromi, who risked their lives to save some victims. Their brave actions reflect values of empathy, courage, and unity that transcend ethnic and regional boundaries.
CISLAC calls on all levels of government to prioritize citizens' welfare and protection, ensure justice for victims of violence, and promote peaceful coexistence across Nigeria. The organization urges the Edo State government to dismantle unregistered security groups and strengthen community security's legal framework to prevent similar tragedies.
"CISLAC remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting transparency, accountability, and justice in Nigeria, and we stand in solidarity with the victims and their families during this challenging time," the statement concludes.
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Union/ Commendation