Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has vowed to tackle cultism and criminal activities, declaring that his administration will prioritize security to protect residents.
Speaking to reporters on Monday night after a closed-door inaugural security meeting at the Government House in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo directed security agencies to make the state “unsafe for criminal elements.”
“Security is a priority for my administration. During my campaign, I placed it above all, and that commitment remains firm,” Okpebholo stated. He emphasized that cultism dominated the discussions, describing the rising trend of cult-related killings as unacceptable.
“The issue of cultism is not acceptable in Edo State. We do not want to lose anybody, and we will be firm about this. We have ordered security agencies to collaborate and ensure that Edo is safe for all, but not safe for criminals. We charged them to smoke criminals out of the State wherever they are hiding,” the Governor said.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, Umoru Peter Ozigi, confirmed that security agencies had reviewed their efforts and identified critical areas requiring attention during the meeting.
“We just finished the first security council meeting with the Governor. He has assured us of his administration’s support in ensuring that Edo State is a peaceful place to live and conduct business,” Ozigi noted.
The Governor’s strong stance reflects his commitment to addressing the alarming insecurity in Edo State, particularly in Benin City, and creating a safer environment for residents.
