The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced the establishment of a joint fact-finding committee by the Federal Government and the Edo State Government to investigate the recent killing of hunters in Uromi, Edo State.

The governor made this known on Thursday while receiving a delegation from Kano State, led by the state Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, at the Government House in Benin City.

Governor Okpebholo stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is deeply concerned about the incident and is committed to ensuring lasting peace and security across the nation. 

He emphasised that the president is personally interested in getting to the root of the matter and is determined to implement lasting solutions. 

The governor added that the committee will thoroughly examine the underlying causes of the killings and share its findings with the public in the interest of transparency.

He acknowledged the report submitted by the Kano delegation, describing it as a helpful contribution to the investigation. 

Okpebholo highlighted the longstanding relationship between Edo and Kano States, particularly in commerce and industry, and reiterated the peace-loving nature of Edo people.

Deputy Governor Gwarzo thanked Governor Okpebholo for his earlier visit to Kano following the Uromi incident. 

He explained that Kano State had already set up a committee to identify the victims, verify their identities, and compile a detailed report, which was presented during the visit. 

According to Gwarzo, 16 people from five local government areas in Kano lost their lives in the attack. 

He expressed confidence in the Edo State Government’s commitment to justice and called for a transparent process.

The meeting was attended by key figures, including Edo State Deputy Governor Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, security heads, and senior officials from both states. 

Following the meeting, Governor Okpebholo and the Kano delegation visited Uromi, where they met with members of the Hausa community.