08/04/2025
Vigilante groups in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, have protested against the state government’s directive to collect weapons from non-state security outfits across the state.
The protest, which took place over the weekend, saw dozens of vigilante members and concerned residents take to the streets, voicing their disapproval of what they described as a “premature and dangerous” disarmament policy.
According to officials, the move by the state government is part of efforts to regulate arms and curb illegal weapon proliferation. However, the Uromi vigilantes argue that the decision increases the risk to local communities.
Carrying placards with messages such as “Disarm Criminals, Not Vigilantes” and “We Need Support, Not Sabotage”, the protesters marched to the palace of the Ojuromi of Uromi to seek the monarch’s intervention in halting the policy. Several elders and youth groups also joined the march in solidarity.
Community leaders say the vigilantes have played a crucial role in maintaining peace and security in Uromi and other rural parts of Edo State, especially in the face of rising insecurity and inadequate government presence.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Government insists that the weapon recovery initiative is a proactive measure to prevent the misuse of arms and ensure that all armed groups operate within the law.
Despite the assurances, the Uromi vigilantes and their supporters say they will continue to resist the disarmament until concrete measures are put in place to protect their communities.
If the Fulani can carry weapons around
What is your stake on this????
