Amnesty International has strongly condemned the gruesome murder of Northern travelers in Uromi, Edo State, calling for a transparent investigation and immediate prosecution of those responsible.
The victims, mostly hunters traveling from Rivers State to Kano for Eid celebrations, were falsely accused of being kidnappers. Despite their pleas, they were brutally attacked, beaten, and burned alive by a mob of vigilantes and armed youths, an incident captured in viral videos that have sparked national outrage.
Amnesty International’s Response
Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, decried the attack, stating:
“The Nigerian authorities must immediately and transparently institute an investigation into the lynching of over 16 travelers. Their vehicle was blocked, they were dragged out one by one, beaten, and then set ablaze by vigilantes and armed youths in Uromi. The victims were tied to used tires, doused with petrol, and set on fire.”
He further criticized the rising trend of mob violence across Nigeria, where vigilante groups operate with impunity, blocking roads and executing suspects without legal process.
“The fact that these killings have been happening for a long time, with few cases investigated or prosecuted, highlights the authorities’ shocking failure to protect people from harm and violence.”
Call for Accountability
Sanusi reminded Nigerian authorities of their legal obligation under international law to protect the rights of those accused of crimes, including their right to life and protection from torture or ill-treatment.
He urged the government to:
Go beyond condemnation and ensure suspected attackers are identified and prosecuted in fair trials.
End the culture of impunity, as failure to punish mob violence has emboldened perpetrators.
Equip law enforcement agencies to prevent and respond effectively to mob attacks.
“The Nigerian government must take immediate and effective measures to prevent mob violence and ensure justice for victims,” Amnesty International insisted.
