Major-General Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd) has stated that the actions of the reported hunters slain in Uromi contributed to the vigilante group’s actions.
According to reports, 16 hunters were killed in Uromi, Edo State while trekking to the north.
Speaking with Arise News, General Esekhaigbe revealed that the incident’s genuine position was being narrated from one perspective.
He claimed that the vigilante group received local intelligence that the alleged hunters had weapons in the truck transporting them to North. They planned to search the vehicle, but one of them wounded a vigilante with a knife, prompting the vigilante group’s action.
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“Those who did it, let me correct one impression here. Uromi’s events were not one-sided. When these people were stopped, they stated that they were going to check the vehicle because they received local intelligence that they were carrying weapons.
“So, while attempting to get inside, one of them stabbed one of the vigilante guys. So, as a result, hell will break loose. But that does not explain the conduct because it is wrong, and taking another person’s life unjustly is not part of our culture in the area where we are from,” he stated.
The General underlined the importance of educating cattle ranchers on what it means to conduct legitimate commerce and prevent underground movements.
He also urged community leaders and traditional rulers to explicitly state the laws and regulations of their communities before permitting herders to graze in them.
“We must educate the public that they have come to do legitimate commerce, not an underground movement. You also need to be aware of your surroundings. Do you know who is coming in and saying they want to work with you? Have you processed them to see if they are genuine? Or perhaps they are hiding behind the umbrella of cattle ranching to cause havoc?
“Therefore, community leaders must be aware of their obligations.
“If you allow people to come and rear cows and claim to pay you homage or anything, you must inform them that there are regulations in that environment. And the police must be very proactive when these incidents occur,” he remarked.
