By Adeyinka Adeniran
Speakers of Houses of Assembly in the country under the aegis of Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria (CSSLN) has condemned in strong terms what it described as horrific lynching of 16 travellers by a mob in Uromi, Edo State.
The Conference, speaking through its Chairman, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin said the action of the mob, who allegedly claimed to be vigilante and who were responsible for the incident is barbaric and unjustifiable.
Ogundoyin is the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly.
According to the Speakers, it is essential to ensure that local security operatives operate with professionalism, respect for human rights, and in line with the rule of law.
It added that such extrajudicial killings undermine the rule of law and contribute to the erosion of societal values.
While commending the prompt response of the Edo State government and security agencies in addressing the situation, the Conference urged them to intensify efforts to ensure that those responsible for the heinous act are swiftly identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
It also called for proper and rigorous oversight of the community policing structures established by various state governments, as the group extended its condolences to the families of the bereaved.
The statement reads in part, “The CSSLN strongly condemns the horrific lynching of 16 northern travelers who were, on transit, accused of possessing dane guns (local firearms).
“These individuals were tragically killed by a mob in Uromi, Edo State, on Friday, March 28, 2025.
“The actions of the so-called Vigilante group members responsible are barbaric and unjustifiable.
“The Conference decries this act of mob violence as a gross violation of human rights and a serious threat to peace and security.
“Such extrajudicial killings undermine the rule of law and contribute to the erosion of societal values.
“We commend the prompt response of the Edo State government and security agencies in addressing the situation, but we urge them to intensify efforts to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are swiftly identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.”
“Furthermore, the Conference calls for proper and rigorous oversight of the community policing structures established by various state governments.
“It is essential to ensure that these local security operatives operate with professionalism, respect for human rights, and in line with the rule of law. Effective oversight will safeguard the integrity of these initiatives and ensure they do not become instruments of injustice.
“Our hearts go out to the families of the deceased. We extend our deepest condolences during this time of grief and stand with them in their loss.”
