UROMI – His Royal Highness, Zaiki Anslem Eidenojie II, the Ojuromi of Uromi, has strongly condemned the recent killing of travelers in his domain, describing the act as jungle justice and expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy.
The monarch extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the people of Kano, and all affected communities, emphasizing the urgent need for justice and comprehensive security intervention.
Addressing the media, the Ojuromi acknowledged the growing insecurity in Uromi and Esanland, marked by kidnappings and extrajudicial killings.
He stressed that while the recent incident is deplorable, it highlights a long-standing security crisis that has been continuously ignored by both state and federal authorities.
“For years, our people have cried out for help, urging authorities to address the worsening security situation in Uromi and Esanland. This tragic event underscores the immediate need for a reinforced security framework,” he stated.
Uromi, once a modest town, has rapidly grown into a thriving city, attracting a larger population and increasing security challenges.
The Ojuromi pointed out that the Uromi Divisional Police Station is inadequate to handle the escalating threats and called for the urgent establishment of a Rapid Response Team, paramilitary units, and a military forward base to enhance security in the region.
The monarch expressed grave concern over the failure of security agencies to intervene during the prolonged attack. “The fact that such a barbaric act lasted for hours without any police response is deeply troubling. It highlights the glaring lapses in security and the urgent need for reinforcements,” he said.
In a direct appeal to the Federal Government, the Ojuromi urged the full operationalization of the Mobol Barracks, a security facility built and donated by the people of Uromi for the Nigerian Police Force but currently underutilized.
“He also called on the Edo State Government to collaborate with stakeholders to expedite the approval of the Esan MOPOL Barracks, which would significantly bolster security in the region.
Beyond deploying additional security personnel, the monarch emphasized the importance of leveraging existing community security structures to protect residents. He warned that the current security vacuum has left many unable to access their farmlands, worsening economic difficulties and increasing tensions in the region.
“The people of Uromi are peace-loving and law-abiding. We categorically reject jungle justice, as it goes against the principles of fairness and due process.
“However, we cannot remain passive while our people and visitors suffer due to an ineffective security framework,” he declared.
The Ojuromi insisted that justice must be served for the recent killings, but more crucially, preventive security measures must be put in place to avert future tragedies.
He urged the authorities to take swift action, underscoring that security is a fundamental right of every citizen.
“Uromi must not be left behind in the pursuit of peace, safety, and sustainable development,” he added.
