Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has directed the heads of security agencies to intensify efforts to eradicate criminal elements, including cultists responsible for a recent wave of killings across Benin City and its environs. This directive follows the death of at least seven people over the past two weeks due to cult-related clashes in areas such as Ugbague, Nevis Road, Dawson, Total in New Benin, Iyaro, Wire Road, Ring Road, and Sapele Road.
The order was given during an inaugural security meeting held Monday night at the Government House in Benin City, which took place behind closed doors. The Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, issued a statement on Tuesday detailing the outcome of the meeting. Governor Okpebholo emphasized that his administration places a high priority on security and will not allow the state to be a haven for criminal activity.
“The issue of cultism dominated the discussion,” Okpebholo said. “The rate of cultism is not acceptable to my administration. We have ordered security agencies to collaborate and ensure that Edo is safe for all, but not safe for criminals.”
The governor reiterated that his administration is determined to put an end to cult-related violence, urging security forces to intensify their operations and apprehend those responsible for the killings. “We charged them to smoke criminals out of the State wherever they are hiding and ensure that the State is safe for all,” he added.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, Umoru Peter Ozigi, echoed the governor’s commitment following the meeting. He stated that the various security agencies had outlined areas of concern and ongoing measures to address the rising violence. Ozigi assured residents that Governor Okpebholo has pledged full support to enable security agencies to make the state safe for citizens and businesses.
“We just finished the first security council meeting with the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo. We have discussed areas of concern and our efforts so far. The Governor has assured us that he will give us the needed support and ensure that Edo State is a place for all to live and do business peacefully,” Ozigi said.
