…calls for apprehension of perpetrators
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central, PDP) has condemned the brutal killing of 16 innocent travellers from Northern Nigeria in Edo, describing it as a “devastating act” that warrants swift condemnation and action.
“The brutal killing of 16 hunters in Edo state is not only inhumane but a grave violation of justice and the rule of law. Security agencies should swiftly investigate this crime and bring the perpetrators to justice,” Senator Natasha said.
She emphasised that it is unacceptable for local vigilantes to take the law into their own hands, misinterpreting the hunters’ Dane guns as a threat instead of contacting the authorities.
Natasha urged the Nigerian government to take immediate and decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice and provide assurance that such atrocities will not happen again.
While acknowledging the arrest of five suspects as a step in the right direction, Senator Natasha stressed that more needs to be done to address the root causes of this violence and prevent further reprisals.
To prevent similar incidents, Senator Natasha recommended that the authorities focus on enhancing law enforcement, improving intelligence sharing among security agencies, and promoting public awareness about the dangers of mob violence.
“However, to avoid occurrences of such nature, hunters must register their Dane guns with the Police upon obtaining hunting licenses.
“They must carry along their licenses and permits whenever travelling with the weapons. Awareness is key,” Senator Natasha added.