Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has relieved the Commander of the State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (Rtd.) of his job.
The Governor also ordered the immediate suspension of all illegal vigilante groups operating under whatever guise in the State.
A statement on Sunday by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, said the decision followed a review of the preliminary report of the Thursday gruesome killings of some travellers at Uromi in Esan North East Local Government Area of the State.
The statement reiterated that the local vigilante group involved in the incident was operating illegally, insisting that it was never profiled nor registered with the Edo State Security Corps.
“Its actions do not reflect the core values, character and principles of the Okpebholo administration, or the objectives of the corps as enshrined in the Edo State Security Corps Governance Law.
“Investigations into the killings are ongoing and fourteen (14) persons have been arrested so far, while there is an intense manhunt for others involved in the gruesome killing by a special team set up by the Inspector General of Police.
“The Government of Edo State reiterates its belief in the constitutionally guaranteed rights of citizens to move freely or engage in lawful business in any part of the country.
“In the meantime, the Government is in touch with families of the victims, community leaders and the Government of Kano State where most of the deceased are reported to hail from.
“We urge all parties involved to remain calm as the State Government remains committed to ensuring that justice is done in a most efficient, transparent and proactive manner,” the statement said.
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