The Department of State Security (DSS) has apprehended two primary suspects linked to the recent killing of 16 northerners in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State.
According to a statement by Governor Monday Okpehbolo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the arrests were made following credible intelligence. Security agencies are also actively searching for other key individuals involved in the attack.
READ ALSO: Edo Killings: Security Operatives Shut Down Uromi
The two principal suspects have been transferred to Abuja for further investigation and prosecution. A source informed PUNCH that the 14 other individuals earlier arrested in connection with the incident have also been moved to the Force Headquarters as part of the ongoing investigation. The transfer was carried out in accordance with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police.
“I can confirm that the suspects have been taken to Abuja as directed by the IGP, and investigations are still ongoing,” the source said.
Regarding compensation for the victims’ families, Itua mentioned that the Edo and Kano State governments are working together to determine an appropriate form of support. While he could not confirm whether it would be financial, he emphasized that both states are committed to ensuring the families receive compensation.
“As you know, Governor Okpehbolo met with Kano State officials and visited the families of the 16 victims, where he assured them of compensation. The exact form of this support is still being discussed,” he stated.
Meanwhile, residents of Uromi are reportedly fleeing their homes due to fears of mass arrests. A local resident, identified as Michael, said many people in the affected area have left to avoid being taken into custody by security forces searching for suspects.
In addition, women gathered at the palace of the Ojuromi of Uromi to protest what they described as indiscriminate arrests following the killings.
“What is happening now is that people are leaving their homes out of fear. Security operatives have been ordered to track down all those involved in the incident. I believe the women’s protest on Monday was in response to these widespread arrests,” Michael said.
Meanwhile, the Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused certain opposition parties of plotting to create chaos in the state. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, APC chairman Jarret Tenebe alleged that the opposition’s goal was to make Edo ungovernable in an attempt to force President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency.
“We have learned that some major opposition leaders in Edo, along with others, have devised a reckless and dangerous plan to instigate unrest in the state,” Tenebe claimed.
