The Edo State Government said the compensation process for the families of the 16 migrant hunters killed in Uromi in March is currently underway.

Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, made the disclosure to Daily Trust in Benin over the weekend.

It would be recalled that on March 28, the hunters, who were returning to Kano State from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, were reportedly intercepted and lynched by vigilantes in Uromi, Esan North-East LGA of Edo State, on suspicion of being kidnappers.

The victims hailed from Torankawa in Bunkure, Kibiya, Garko, and Rano LGAs of Kano State.

Governor Okpebholo had pledged compensation during a condolence visit to the bereaved families, accompanied by his Kano State counterpart.

The CPS said, “I have spoken to the Secretary to the State Government regarding developments on the promises made. The Edo State Government has been in touch with Arewa community leaders, who have identified the genuine beneficiaries of the deceased.”

He noted that the verification process to identify rightful beneficiaries was challenging but necessary to prevent impersonation.

“So, that process is ongoing, and once it is concluded and verified, compensation will be paid immediately,” he said.

He added that both Edo and Kano state governments remain in constant communication over the matter.

“This was not a political statement by the governor; the compensation will happen. The process is near completion,” he said. (Daily Trust)