The Edo State Government has confirmed that the process of compensating families of the 16 migrant hunters killed in Uromi in March is currently ongoing.
Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, disclosed this during a weekend interview with Daily Trust in Benin City.
The incident occurred on March 28 when the hunters, returning to Kano State from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, were reportedly intercepted and lynched by vigilantes in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, on suspicion of being kidnappers.
The victims were from Torankawa in Bunkure, Kibiya, Garko, and Rano LGAs of Kano State.
Following a condolence visit to the bereaved families—accompanied by Kano State Governor—Governor Okpebholo pledged that compensation would be provided.
“The Edo State Government has been in touch with Arewa community leaders, who have helped identify the genuine beneficiaries of the deceased,” Itua stated.
He acknowledged that the verification process has been complex due to the need to avoid impersonation but stressed that it is nearing completion.
“Once verification is finalized, the compensation will be disbursed without delay,” he added.
Itua also affirmed that both Edo and Kano State governments are in continuous contact to ensure the matter is resolved responsibly.
“This is not a political promise—the governor is committed to fulfilling it. The compensation will happen,” he assured.
