Amnesty International Demands Probe Into Lynching of 16 Northern Travelers in Edo
Amnesty International has called for an immediate and transparent investigation into the gruesome lynching of at least 16 travelers in Uromi, Edo State.
The human rights organization said vigilantes and armed youths allegedly blocked the victims’ vehicle, dragged them out one by one, and set them ablaze. The victims, identified as hunters traveling from Rivers State to Kano for the Eid celebrations, were reportedly attacked on suspicion of being criminals.
Disturbing videos of the incident, which have gone viral on social media, show the victims pleading for their lives while a crowd watched. Vigilantes allegedly used axes, iron rods, and machetes before tying them to used tires, dousing them in petrol, and setting them on fire.
In a statement on Thursday, Amnesty International strongly condemned the attack and urged authorities to take immediate action beyond mere condemnation.
“The horrific mob violence in Uromi is part of a rising trend of vigilante groups unlawfully blocking highways and attacking travelers with impunity,” the statement read.
“The failure of authorities to investigate and prosecute such cases highlights a shocking disregard for their duty to protect citizens from harm.”
The organization criticized the Nigerian government’s inability to curb mob violence, stating that the lack of accountability has emboldened vigilantes to act without consequences.
Amnesty International called on security agencies, particularly the police, to be adequately equipped to prevent such incidents and protect innocent lives. It urged the government to implement effective measures to stop extrajudicial killings and ensure justice for victims.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Governor has visited the community and ordered a full investigation into the killings, directing security agencies to arrest those responsible.
Security forces have reportedly launched investigations, but no official arrests have been confirmed as of press time.
