Edo Governor Declares Tough Stance on Cultism and Crime

By Mohammed Bello Doka 

In a decisive move to combat the rising threat of cultism and other criminal activities, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has laid down a firm directive for security forces across the state. The Governor's charge came after a high-level security meeting, held behind closed doors at the Government House in Benin City on Monday evening.

Emerging from the meeting, Governor Okpebholo emphasized that security is the top priority for his administration. He reiterated his commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of every resident, underscoring that the current wave of cult-related violence will not be tolerated under his watch. "The issue of cultism is unacceptable in Edo State," the Governor declared, stressing that his administration would act decisively to curb the menace.

Okpebholo's administration is mobilizing security agencies to work in unison to ensure that Benin City and other parts of the state become hostile territory for criminals. He has directed these agencies to intensify their efforts, promising to track down and eliminate criminal hideouts. "We charged them to smoke criminals out of the State wherever they are hiding," he told the press, adding that the goal is to make Edo safe for law-abiding citizens while driving out those who threaten the peace.

Supporting the Governor's stance, Edo State Commissioner of Police, Umoru Peter Ozigi, acknowledged the critical nature of the security discussions. He assured the public that security forces are prepared to act on the Governor’s directives, noting that the administration's backing will strengthen ongoing efforts to restore peace. “The Governor has assured us of his support to make Edo a safe and peaceful place to live and conduct business,” Ozigi stated.

Governor Okpebholo’s bold declaration comes as part of his broader security agenda, which he championed during his campaign. With the recent surge in cult-related incidents, his administration’s strategy aims to restore confidence among residents, ensuring a secure and conducive environment for all.