We Won’t Allow Criminals To Take Edo Hostage, Says Okpebholo

Edo Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has declared that criminals and those backing them will not be allowed to destabilise the state

Okpebholo gave the assurance while responding to growing public concerns over kidnapping, cultism and other criminal activities across the state.

Captured in a statement shared on the state government’s Facebook page on Sunday, he assured residents of his commitment to the safety of lives and property.

“This administration will not allow criminals or their sponsors to take Edo State hostage.

“Anyone involved in kidnapping, cultism or any form of criminality will be tracked down and brought to justice.

“There will be no hiding place for perpetrators,” Okpebholo said.

Okpebholo said his administration has invested heavily in modern security equipment, intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration to confront criminal elements.

He noted that the fight against kidnapping is being approached “seriously and strategically,” stressing that security operations are currently ongoing across the state.

According to him, certain security measures cannot be fully disclosed to the public because of their sensitive nature.

“Security is not something you discuss openly all the time. Premature disclosures can undermine operations,” the Governor said.

While affirming the government’s respect for citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful protest, Okpebholo cautioned against attempts by individuals or groups to exploit public sentiments to destabilise the state.

The governor further assured residents of his administration’s firm control of the security situation, encouraging them to go about their lawful activities without fear.

He also called on citizens to support security agencies by providing timely and useful information, warning against shielding criminals within communities.