The Federal Government and the Edo State Government have jointly established a fact-finding committee to investigate the recent Uromi killings, which claimed the lives of 16 Kano-bound travellers in Esan North-East Local Government Area.
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, revealed this on Thursday while receiving a high-level delegation from Kano State, led by Deputy Governor Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, at the Government House in Benin City.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is deeply concerned about the tragic Uromi attack and is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians.
“This incident has opened our eyes and we are ready to address a lot of issues about the country and how to make life better for us all. The president is not happy with what has happened and he wants us to see to the end of this dastardly act,” the governor said.
“The President personally wants to see to the end of this issue. I want to also let you know that the President and Edo State Government have set up a committee to find out the remote cause(s) of the incident and put a lasting solution to the issue.”
“This report you have submitted will actually help us so that we do not have to worry you. A lot will be done and made open to the public to know what the committee is doing on the issue.”
“We are a peace-loving people in Edo State. We love those living with us in the State. Kano and Edo State have been collaborating in the area of commerce and industry.”
The Kano State Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, commended Governor Okpebholo for his earlier visit to Kano and for his calm and compassionate approach to the tragedy.
“The Governor of Kano State set up a Committee to screen and verify, to establish the names, numbers, next of kin and those who survived the attack. We have been able to carry out these activities and we have come out with a report which we are here to submit to your Excellency.”
“You promised us that justice will be done and we believe you on this Mr. Governor. We need a transparent process on this issue. Sixteen persons lost their dear lives from five local government areas of Kano State.”
Also present at the meeting were Edo State Deputy Governor Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly Rt. Hon Blessing Agbebaku, top security chiefs, and senior officials from both Kano and Edo States.
Following the meeting, Governor Okpebholo and the Kano delegation visited Uromi, where they met with members of the Hausa community residing in the area.