State lawmakers condemn killing of 16 Northern hunters in Edo

…reiterates calls for community policing

The Conference of States Legislature of Nigeria has condemned the killing of the 16 northern states-bound travellers in Uromi, Edo State, describing the act as not only barbaric but also a gross violation of human rights.

It has reiterated its call for community policing to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies in protecting the lives and property of the citizenry.

The Conference, in a statement by its Chairman, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, described the actions of the so-called members of the vigilance group responsible for the killings as barbaric and unjustifiable.

It decried the act of mob violence by local security officers 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.

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“We commend the prompt response of the Edo State Government and security agencies in addressing the situation, but we urge the State Government 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 called 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 act 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,” the statement said.

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