by Atafo Igbinedion-
Benin City – November 19, 2024:
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern directive to security agencies to intensify their efforts against criminal elements in the state, particularly targeting the menace of cultism.
The Governor made the declaration on Monday night after an inaugural security meeting held behind closed doors at the Government House in Benin City.
Addressing journalists, Governor Okpebholo emphasized his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents while making the state uninhabitable for criminals. “During my campaign, I placed security above all. It is a priority for my administration because it is critical to our progress,” he stated.
“The issue of cultism dominated today’s discussions. The rising rate of cult-related killings in Edo State is unacceptable. My administration will not fold its arms while lives are lost to this scourge.”
Governor Okpebholo announced that security agencies had been directed to collaborate and root out cultists and other criminal elements. “We charged them to smoke out criminals from their hiding places. Edo State will be safe for law-abiding citizens but unsafe for criminals. We do not want to lose anyone to cult-related violence, and we will be firm in addressing this issue,” he added.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, Umoru Peter Ozigi, confirmed that the meeting outlined actionable plans to address security challenges, particularly cultism.
He expressed confidence in the Governor’s support for security operations. “We just concluded the first security council meeting with the Governor, where we reviewed areas of concern and the progress made so far,” Ozigi said.
“The Governor assured us of his administration’s full backing to ensure that Edo State remains a safe place for residents and businesses.”
Governor Okpebholo’s strong stance sends a clear message to criminal elements in Edo State.
His administration is focused on creating an environment where safety and development go hand in hand, with a zero-tolerance policy for cultism and violent crimes.
