The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) also flayed the mob action, describing it as lawless and a grave violation of human rights.
In a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN expressed deep sorrow over the extrajudicial killings, emphasizing the urgent need for justice and stronger law enforcement measures.
“This extrajudicial killing is a grievous violation of human rights and a chilling reminder of the dangers of lawlessness. We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of these hunters, who now mourn the loss of their loved ones taken in such a senseless and brutal manner. Our thoughts are also with all families affected by recent acts of violence and injustice across Nigeria.
“These tragedies inflict profound pain and could erode trust in our legal system, highlighting the urgent need for effective law enforcement and the upholding of the rule of law. The government must act decisively to address these failures and ensure justice is served,” the statement partly read.
Okoh also called on Nigerians to unite for peace and security in the face of the current challenges while calling on the government to conduct a thorough investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“In the face of such challenges, we must not succumb to despair. Instead, let this moment spur us to unite for peace and security. I urge all Nigerians to practise charity, support those in need, and stand together against violence and division.
“Specifically, we call on the government to conduct a thorough investigation into the killing of the sixteen hunters and ensure the perpetrators face justice. Leaders at all levels must also promote understanding and reject mob actions. CAN reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue and cooperation with Muslim leaders, fostering interfaith initiatives to build a stronger nation,” he added.
The President highlighted the shared values between Christianity and Islam and further called on religious and community leaders to discourage mob violence and promote understanding among different faiths, while reaffirming the body’s commitment to interfaith dialogue and cooperation, emphasizing the need for a society where every life is valued and protected under the rule of law.
“As we extend our goodwill on this special occasion, let us all embrace compassion, forgiveness, and mutual respect. These values are the foundation of a society where justice prevails, and every life is protected,” the statement read.
The National Secretary of PFN, Bishop David Bakare, described the act as “barbaric and ungodly,” emphasising that even if the victims were mistaken for kidnappers, it was unacceptable for the people to take the law into their own hands.
Bakare appealed for calm, urging against reprisal attacks and emphasizing that “two wrongs cannot make a right.”
He expressed condolences to the families of the victims and urged the authorities to ensure that the culprits are brought to book.
Bakare said, “We strongly condemn this barbaric and ungodly act of killing travellers under any circumstances.
“Even if they were kidnappers, that does not warrant taking the law into our hands; the right thing was to hand them over to law enforcement agents for proper investigation and legal action.
“We urge that a thorough investigation must be carried out on this matter to ensure that the culprits are brought to book, no matter who they may be. We appeal against reprisals because two wrongs won’t make a right. Our prayers are with the families of the victims.”
Also, the spokesman for the House of Representatives, Akintunde Rotimi, called on security agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice, stressing that Nigerians should coexist peacefully regardless of ethnic or religious differences.
Rotimi, who represents Ekiti North I Federal Constituency, spoke on Saturday in Ayede Ekiti during the Second Ramadan Annual Lecture he organised in honour of the National Vice President of Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Aare Sulaiman Ogunlayi.
Rotimi said, “Nigerians should be able to coexist peacefully regardless of our cultural and traditional differences. There must be love and harmony among us.
“On behalf of the people of Ikole/Oye-Ekiti (Ekiti North I) Federal Constituency, we condemn the violent mob attack on those travellers in Edo State. We call on security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators are identified and brought to justice,” the lawmaker said.
Madukwe B. Nwabuisi is an accomplished journalist renown for his fearless reporting style and extensive expertise in the field. He is an investigative journalist, who has established himself as a kamikaze reporter.
