The activities of illegal vigilantes and the commander of the State Security Corps, Friday Ibadin (retired) have been suspended by the governor of Edo State, Monday, Okpebholo.
In a statement issued on Sunday, March 30, by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, the governor said the vigilante group involved in the killing of 16 hunters in Uromi operated illegally.
He said members of the group nor the activities of the local vigilante were never profiled or registered with the Edo State Security Corps.
The governor also noted that the actions taken by the vigilante group on March 27, were not in line with the core values and principles of the state and the Edo Security Corps Governance Law.
“It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that after a review of the preliminary report of the unfortunate incident of Thursday 27th March 2025 at Uromi in Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State involving the gruesome killing of some travellers, the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo has ordered the immediate suspension of all illegal Vigilante Groups operating under whatever guise in the State.
“Also suspended is the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (rtd.),” the statement said.
It added that the state government is committed to guaranteeing the constitutional right of citizens to move freely and engage in their lawful business anywhere across the country.