Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has condemned the killing of a group of northern hunters in Edo State, promising justice while also calling for stricter regulation of vigilante groups. The incident, which occurred on March 28, 2025, highlights ongoing tensions and security challenges in the country.
General Musa stated that the incident, in which travellers were attacked and killed while reportedly returning home from Rivers State for the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, could have been prevented with better verification of identities by authorities. The statement raises questions about the effectiveness of existing security protocols and the ability of local authorities to manage inter-ethnic tensions.
Security Forces Mobilized, but Questions Remain:
According to a statement released by the Director of Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, the CDS urged Nigerians to rely on constituted authorities for security matters. While General Musa assured that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) will collaborate with the police and other security agencies to prosecute the perpetrators, concerns persist about the capacity and impartiality of these agencies in addressing such crimes.
Calls for Vigilante Registration Amidst Concerns of Abuse:
General Musa’s call for all local hunters and vigilante groups to register with security agencies to ensure proper regulation of firearms possession underscores growing concerns about the proliferation of unregulated armed groups. While proponents argue that these groups are necessary to supplement state security forces, critics point to a history of abuses and extrajudicial killings. The effectiveness of registration in preventing future incidents remains to be seen.
Mass Burial Highlights Ethnic Tensions:
Reports indicate that 19 victims of the attack, identified as northerners, were buried in Udune Efandion, Uromi, Edo State. The victims were allegedly intercepted by a vigilante group and armed youths, forcibly removed from their vehicle, and brutally murdered. Disturbing videos of the incident have circulated online, sparking widespread outrage and raising concerns about ethnic tensions and vigilante justice in Nigeria.
Nationwide Condemnation, but Trust in Security Forces is Key:
The attack has drawn condemnation from political figures and civil society groups, who are demanding swift justice. However, public trust in security agencies remains a significant challenge. The authorities’ ability to effectively investigate and prosecute those responsible will be crucial in restoring confidence and preventing future incidents.
Analysis and Perspective:
The killing of the northern hunters in Edo State is a stark reminder of the complex security challenges facing Nigeria, including ethnic tensions, the proliferation of unregulated armed groups, and a lack of public trust in security agencies. General Musa’s condemnation of the attack and his call for vigilante regulation are important steps, but more comprehensive measures are needed to address the root causes of violence and ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians. The incident also raises questions about the government’s strategy for managing inter-ethnic relations and preventing vigilante justice.
