The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa has publicly condemned the killing of 16 hunters in Uromi, Edo State, highlighting the preventable nature of the situation.
He condemned the attack through Director Defence Information, Brigadier -General Tukur Gusau Via the Defense Official X account on the 30th of March 2025.
He noted that had the proper authorities been informed in advance, the identities of the victims could have been verified, potentially averting the tragedy.
In his statement, General Musa extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He emphasized the profound loss felt by the nation and urged unity in the face of such violence.
Addressing the public, General Musa cautioned against taking the law into one’s own hands, reiterating the importance of involving legitimate authorities in security matters. He stressed that the Nigerian police, military, and various security agencies possess the necessary training and expertise to effectively manage situations that may arise within communities.
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Furthermore, the Chief of Defence Staff assured citizens that the Armed Forces of Nigeria would work hand-in-hand with the police and other relevant security bodies to ensure that those responsible for this atrocious act are held accountable. He also urged local hunters and vigilante groups to formally register with the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Armed Forces, and other lawful agencies responsible for regulating firearm possession. This measure is crucial to maintaining order and accountability in the community.
In his closing remarks, General Musa called for calm among the populace, emphasizing the need for cooperation with security agencies. He expressed the importance of public support for the Armed Forces and other security organizations as they strive to fulfill their constitutional duties diligently and effectively, ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
On March 28, 2025, a tragic and violent incident unfolded in Uromi, Edo State, where a mob brutally killed 16 northern travelers. These individuals were en route from Port Harcourt in Rivers State to Kano when they became victims of a grave misunderstanding.
