Security forces have taken over strategic locations in Uromi, the headquarters of Esan North-East Local Government Area in Edo State, following last Thursday’s mob killing of 16 northern travellers.
The deployment of police, military personnel, and plainclothes operatives across major junctions and suspected hotspots aims to prevent possible reprisals. Residents, however, remain gripped by fear as the town adjusts to the heavy security presence and uncertainty about what may follow.
A visit to the area on Monday revealed that many residents are now cautious about speaking openly, especially to strangers. The arrest of at least 14 individuals—reportedly picked up randomly in connection with the killings—has heightened anxiety in the community.