IGP Egbetokun Condemns Mob Action in Edo State, Orders FCID Takeover of Investigation

IGP Egbetokun Condemns Mob Action in Edo State, Orders FCID Takeover of Investigation

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has strongly condemned the violent mob action carried out against a group of travelers by a local vigilante group along the Uromi-Obajana Road in Edo State. The travelers, who claimed to be hunters, were found in possession of nineteen (19) locally fabricated firearms when intercepted by the vigilantes. Unsatisfied with their explanation, the vigilantes concluded they were kidnappers and resorted to unlawful mob justice, leading to tragic consequences.

In response, the Edo State Police Command swiftly deployed operatives to restore law and order in the affected community. Fourteen (14) suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, while a manhunt is underway for other perpetrators involved in the mob action.

To ensure a thorough, impartial, and expedited investigation, the IGP has directed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), DIG Sadiq Abubakar, mni, to take over the case. He reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and warned that any form of unlawful killings or extrajudicial actions will not be tolerated.

The IGP has also appealed for calm, urging the public to fully cooperate with the investigation. He emphasized that anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.

Furthermore, while condemning the resort to jungle justice, the Nigeria Police Force reiterated that the unlawful possession of firearms remains a criminal offense under Nigerian law. Individuals in possession of unlicensed firearms are advised to surrender them at the nearest police station or initiate the appropriate licensing process.

The Force strongly warns against taking the law into one’s hands and encourages citizens to report suspicious activities promptly to lawful authorities.

ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr, mipra, fCAI
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, Abuja
March 28, 2025