The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has strongly condemned the killing of 16 travelers from Northern Nigeria in Udune Efandion, Uromi, Edo State, describing the incident as a horrific act of mob violence fueled by misinformation.
The tragic event, which occurred on Thursday, saw the victims falsely accused of kidnapping, leading to an enraged mob taking the law into their own hands.
“We categorically condemn this act of barbarism and the incitement of local southern youths to commit such a heinous crime,” CNG stated in a release signed by its National Coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, on Saturday.
The group expressed deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives, emphasizing that the victims were law-abiding citizens traveling for legitimate reasons.
“The actions of the mob, fueled by misinformation and ignorance, represent a grave affront to the values of humanity and decency. We call upon all responsible citizens to reject such mob justice and to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to violence based on unfounded allegations,” the statement read.
CNG called for a comprehensive investigation into the incident and justice for the victims, stressing the need for national unity and mutual respect among all ethnic groups.
“The CNG demands an immediate and thorough investigation into this tragic event. We seek answers as to why the response from security operatives was alarmingly delayed. By the time they arrived on the scene following a distress call, the damage had already been done, and lives were irrevocably lost.
“This raises serious questions about the effectiveness and readiness of our security apparatus to protect the lives of all citizens, irrespective of their regional or ethnic origins. We implore the relevant authorities to ensure that such lapses do not occur in the future, as the safety of all Nigerians must be paramount.”
The group further urged Nigerians to foster peaceful coexistence, emphasizing that people from different regions live across the country and must be treated with dignity and respect.
“We must cultivate a sense of coexistence and mutual respect among all ethnic groups, recognizing that violence and hatred only breed further division. It is imperative that we foster a national consciousness that transcends regional boundaries and promotes unity in diversity.”
CNG vowed to pursue justice for the victims and demanded that those responsible for inciting and carrying out the killings be held accountable.
“The CNG demands complete justice for the victims of this barbaric act. We will not rest until those responsible for inciting violence and those who took part in the killings are brought to justice. We call upon the government to take decisive action against the perpetrators and to ensure that such an atrocity is never repeated.”
The group also criticized the silence of northern leaders on the incident, urging them to take concrete steps to ensure the safety and security of Northerners across the country.
“This call to action underscores a fundamental principle enshrined in Nigerian law: every citizen has the right to live and work anywhere in the country without facing discrimination or harassment.
“The Coalition emphasizes that the rights of Northerners must be safeguarded, particularly against illegal harassment in their workplaces and communities. Furthermore, it advocates for their right to practice their faith freely, consistent with their means, and to receive protection when they find themselves as minorities in diverse localities. This demand is not merely a plea for justice; it is a reminder of the shared responsibility among all Nigerians to foster an environment of inclusivity and respect.”
In a message of condolence, CNG expressed solidarity with the victims’ families and called for national unity in rejecting violence.
“In this moment of mourning, we extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims. We stand in solidarity with them and all who reject violence in any form. Together, we must work towards a future where dialogue prevails over violence, and where the sanctity of human life is upheld above all else.”
The group urged the government to act swiftly in ensuring that those behind the attack are prosecuted and measures put in place to prevent future occurrences.
