Amnesty International has called on the Nigerian government to launch an immediate and transparent investigation into the gruesome lynching of 16 travelers in Uromi, Edo State, by vigilante members and armed youths.
The victims—hunters travelling from Rivers State to Kano for Eid celebrations—were ambushed on Wednesday. Their vehicle was reportedly blocked on the highway, and the men were dragged out one after another, beaten severely, tied to used tyres, and set on fire. Videos circulating online show the victims pleading for their lives while an onlooking mob cheered.
Reacting on Friday via its official X handle, Amnesty International condemned the killings, stating:
“Amnesty International calls for an immediate and transparent investigation of lynching of at least 16 travelers… beaten and then set ablaze by the vigilante and armed youth yesterday at Uromi, Edo State.”
The human rights group described the mob violence as part of a disturbing rise in extrajudicial actions by vigilante groups operating unchecked across Nigeria. It stressed that authorities must hold those responsible accountable to curb the growing impunity.
“There is a rising trend of vigilante groups along highways unlawfully blocking roads and engaging in violence with impunity,” the statement warned.
Despite public outrage, the Edo State Police Command has not released any official statement regarding the incident.
Civil society organisations and human rights advocates across the country have echoed Amnesty’s call, demanding that the government act decisively to dismantle the growing menace of mob justice.
Amnesty International reiterated that the Nigerian government must ensure justice is served by arresting and prosecuting those involved, noting that failure to act could embolden further acts of violence and lawlessness.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation online and reignited debate over the unchecked powers of vigilante groups and the rising insecurity across Nigerian highways.
