The Federal Government, in collaboration with the Edo State Government, has set up a fact-finding committee to investigate the recent killing of 16 Kano-bound travelers in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, made the announcement on Thursday while receiving a high-powered delegation from Kano State led by Deputy Governor Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo at the Government House in Benin City.

Governor Okpebholo conveyed the deep concern of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the incident, reiterating the President’s commitment to ensuring justice for the victims. “The President is not happy with what has happened and he wants us to see to the end of this dastardly act,” Okpebholo stated. He further explained that a joint committee had been set up by both the Federal and Edo State governments to investigate the incident and propose lasting solutions.

He assured the Kano delegation that the findings of the committee would be made public, emphasizing that Edo State remains committed to peace, safeguarding lives, and fostering inter-state cooperation.

Deputy Governor Gwarzo, in his remarks, expressed gratitude for Governor Okpebholo’s previous visit to Kano and acknowledged the efforts to seek justice. “Sixteen persons from five local government areas in Kano lost their lives in that tragic incident,” Gwarzo noted. “We believe in a transparent process, and we trust your promise to ensure justice.”

During the meeting, Gwarzo submitted a report compiled by the Kano State Government, which included the identities, next-of-kin, and survival status of those affected by the tragic event.

Also present at the meeting were Edo State Deputy Governor Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Speaker Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, heads of security agencies, and other top officials from both states. The delegation later visited Uromi and met with members of the Hausa community in the area to express solidarity and promote peace.