By: Odie Ramon, Yenagoa.
The Senator representing Bayelsa West Senatorial district, Senator Seriake Dickson, has condemned the killing of 16 northern travellers in Edo State.
The former Bayelsa State governor expressed his resentment in a very strong worded statement obtained from his verifiable Facebook account that he personally signed.
Senator Dickson also while also commending the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his proactive measures, called on the State Government and security agencies to investigate the matter and prosecute those responsible, just as he recommends compensation for the families of the victims.
His words: “I am saddened by reports of the killing of 16 northern travellers in Edo State, and I condemn it in very strong terms. It is unacceptable and condemnable for even one person to be killed, let alone sixteen, in a single occurrence.
“It is also very painful that this unfortunate incident occurred during the Holy month of Ramadan when Muslims mark the end of the fasting period with festivities, travelling across to celebrate with friends and families”, he added.
Dickson further stressed, “I had earlier sent out congratulatory messages to felicitate with all Muslims following the successful completion of the Ramadan fast. In respect of this sad incident, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.
“While I commend the Edo State Governor, my brother, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his proactive measures and the steps he has taken, I call on the State Government and the Nigerian security agencies to thoroughly investigate this matter and hold those responsible to account. I also call for the prosecution of those responsible and urge compensation for the families of the victims.
“I must also commend my brothers, Governor Yusuf of Kano state and Senator Barau, the Emir, the Sultan of Sokoto and other northern leaders for their statements, calling for calm, and I join in that call, urging that those responsible for this horrible act should face severe punishment”, he insisted.
He also warned that there should be no collective criminalization or demonization of any group of Nigerians, ethnic profiling or reprisal attacks, adding, “That was why, when I was governor, even at the height of herdsmen crisis, we insisted on law and order, and made sure that Bayelsa State was safe and free for everyone subject to the laws of the state.
“Those who profile Nigerians according to ethnic group, and criminalize and insult whole tribes are inviting the Rwandan experience which I always preached against.
“We must isolate and punish criminals wherever they are found and whoever they are. In Nigeria, everyone has a right to freedom of movement and should be protected. Everyone has the right to go about their business and feel safe while doing so.
“I call on all leaders to de-escalate tensions and work for unity and mutual coexistence of all Nigerians founded on justice and respect for the rights of all citizens as guaranteed by the Nigerian constitution and laws”, Dickson states.
