Benin City, Nigeria — The Edo Civil Society Organisation (EDOCSO) has thrown its weight behind Governor Monday Okpebholo’s intensified campaign against cultism and related crimes in the state.
Led by Coordinator General Omobude Agho, the group staged a peaceful protest to the Government House in Benin City on Monday, expressing strong support for the administration’s anti-cultism drive.
Addressing the gathering, Agho commended Governor Okpebholo’s decisive efforts and pledged EDOCSO’s continued involvement in public sensitization on the dangers of cultism and the provisions of the newly enforced anti-cultism law.
“We are here in solidarity with the Edo State Government’s actions in the fight against cultism,” Agho said. “EDOCSO is actively educating citizens on the law so no one feigns ignorance.”
He further advised the government to consider seizing properties used for criminal activities instead of demolishing them entirely.
Receiving the protesters, Commissioner for Information and Communication, Paul Ohonbamu, and Chief Press Secretary Fred Itua expressed gratitude for the group’s peaceful approach and solidarity.
Ohonbamu noted, “Governor Okpebholo is determined to restore law and order in Edo. Tough measures are necessary to demonstrate the seriousness of this administration.”
He added that most of the properties targeted for demolition were linked to criminal proceeds and do not contribute to a lawful society.
“Governor Okpebholo is tackling these challenges head-on. Your support confirms that Edo people are standing with him to ensure peace and security,” he said.
Ohonbamu also emphasized the administration’s infrastructural drive, highlighting that the state’s first flyover is under construction, with two more in the pipeline.
“The governor is working with urgency to transform Edo and uplift the standard of living,” he stated.
With EDOCSO and other stakeholders onboard, the government expects greater results in eradicating cult-related activities.
Meanwhile, Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare and state-wide security enhancement. During the inauguration of a 1,000-capacity council hall, a staff bus, and security vehicles in Okada, Ovia North-East LGA, he applauded Council Chairman Igbinake Omoruyi for delivering key projects within four months.
“We knew the caliber of leadership we entrusted in Ovia North-East, and we are already seeing impactful governance,” Idahosa said.
He highlighted that the new council facilities and logistics would improve staff welfare and community security.
Omoruyi, in turn, thanked Governor Okpebholo for empowering him to execute people-centered projects. Also present at the event were NULGE Chairman Igbinoba Omoregbe and APC leaders including Benson Edosomwan and Hon. Charity Amanyaevbo, who all praised the administration’s commitment to grassroots development.
— Hobnob News
