Mob Killings: Edo People’s Congress Blasts Northern Elders

The Edo Peoples Congress (EPC) has criticized the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) for its reaction to the recent killing of 16 hunters in Edo State, describing the remarks as thoughtless and unhelpful, Cable News reports.

The incident, which took place in Uromi, involved a group of hunters of northern origin traveling from Elele, Rivers State, to Kano.

They were attacked and killed by a mob after being mistaken for kidnappers following an alarm raised by local vigilantes.

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In response, NEF condemned the attack and called for the prosecution of those responsible, but also accused the southern region of repeatedly engaging in what it described as violent and inhumane acts against northerners.

Reacting to the NEF’s stance, EPC’s chairman, Umoru Momoh, stated that such comments disregard the steps already taken by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo to ease tensions following the tragedy.

He noted that while the incident was deeply regrettable, it highlights the deep-seated distrust among different regions in Nigeria, as well as the worsening security challenges affecting the country.

Momoh also criticized NEF for overlooking the role of criminal elements from the north who have been linked to banditry, terrorism, and kidnappings.

He pointed out that numerous arrests and video evidence have confirmed the involvement of some northern individuals in violent crimes, making it understandable why many communities feel anxious and defensive when confronted with armed or suspicious-looking strangers.

He called on NEF to shift its focus from inflammatory statements to contributing practical solutions for improving security across Nigeria.

According to him, the growing fear and suspicion of armed groups in the south stems from real threats that authorities must address to restore public confidence.

Momoh urged the federal government to intensify efforts in safeguarding lives and property nationwide, stressing that only through genuine security reforms can the cycle of distrust and violence be broken.