Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced plans to consult with his Kano State counterpart, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, to determine the financial compensation for the families of hunters who were recently killed by members of a local vigilance group in Uromi, Edo State.
Speaking through his Press Secretary, Fred Itrua, on Friday, Governor Okpebholo assured that an agreement would be reached between the two state governments, and that the outcome would be made public in due course.
The development comes after a delegation from Kano State arrived in Benin on Thursday to formally submit a report on the tragic incident, which has drawn national attention and condemnation.
Okpebholo further disclosed that a joint fact-finding committee, set up by the Federal Government in collaboration with the Edo State Government, is already investigating the circumstances surrounding the killings.
According to the governor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring that all parts of the country remain safe for citizens and visitors alike.
“I can’t say what the financial compensation will be. The Kano State Government delegation submitted a report that only the Edo State Governor has seen. What I think will happen is that the governor will contact the Kano State Governor to agree on what compensation would go to the families of the deceased,” Itrua said.
He added that the recommendations submitted by the Kano delegation would be thoroughly reviewed, and that Governor Yusuf would be engaged in further discussions to determine the next line of action.
The incident, which occurred in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, has sparked public outrage, prompting calls for justice and improved coordination between local security outfits and state authorities.