The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has praised the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his swift and decisive response following the tragic killing of travelers in Uromi, Edo State, on March 27, 2025.
The victims, who were from Bankure Local Government Area of Kano State, were brutally murdered by an illegal vigilante group operating outside the official security framework of the state.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC expressed strong support for Governor Okpebholo’s handling of the situation and his commitment to justice. The governor personally visited the bereaved families in Kano State to offer condolences and reassure them of his dedication to ensuring accountability.
As part of his response, Governor Okpebholo announced the immediate suspension of all vigilante groups in Edo State and the suspension of the Edo State Security Corps Commander, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), following revelations that the group responsible for the killings was operating illegally.
CISLAC, a civil society organization dedicated to promoting good governance, rule of law, and human rights protection, strongly endorsed the governor’s actions. The organization emphasized the dangers posed by unregulated vigilante groups and commended the decision to disband those operating outside the law.
“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 read.
The group also lauded Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to securing justice for the victims and their families, stressing the importance of prosecuting the perpetrators to deter future incidents.
CISLAC highlighted the collaboration between the Edo and Kano State governments as a model of inter-regional unity and decisive leadership during times of crisis. The organization called for sustained efforts to strengthen legal frameworks for community security and ensure that all security organizations operate within established laws to protect citizens’ rights.
“This tragedy should serve as a reminder of the need for strong leadership and cross-regional solidarity,” the statement continued. “CISLAC acknowledges Governor Okpebholo’s efforts as a significant step in fostering peace and unity between the northern and southern regions of Nigeria.”
The organization also commended the people of Edo State, particularly those in Uromi, who risked their lives to assist some of the victims. Their bravery, CISLAC noted, exemplifies the values of empathy, courage, and national unity that transcend ethnic and regional divides.
CISLAC urged all levels of government to prioritize citizen welfare, ensure justice for victims of violence, and promote peaceful coexistence across Nigeria. The organization reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and justice, standing in solidarity with the victims and their families during this difficult time.