By Damilola Adeleke

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo on Monday visited Torankawa village in Bunkure Local Government Area, Kano State, to console the families of 16 hunters killed in Uromi, Edo State.

The hunters, who were traveling from Port Harcourt to Kano for Sallah celebrations, were intercepted and lynched by local vigilantes in Uromi, sparking nationwide outrage. Their deaths have also led to rising tensions in Torankawa, with hunters from neighboring villages gathering in protest.

Torankawa, a remote agrarian community with little government presence, had never hosted such high-profile political figures. As the governors arrived, a large crowd of mourners, including women and youths, carried placards demanding justice for the victims.

An elderly resident of the village remarked, “We have never seen a senator in this village, but today, we have seen two governors.” Another mourner expressed hope for justice, urging the government to act swiftly.

Governor Okpebholo assured the community that the Edo State government was committed to ensuring justice, revealing that 14 suspects had already been arrested. Governor Yusuf also condemned the attack, stating, “It is a known fact that our people were traveling through Edo State when they were brutally attacked. Many were maimed, burnt, and murdered in cold blood. We appeal to you to ensure that not only are the perpetrators arrested, but they are also publicly paraded so the world can see those responsible for this heinous crime.”

The visit by both governors underscores the gravity of the situation, as national attention remains focused on bringing the perpetrators to justice.