Edo PDP calls on Okpebholo to address security crisis, claims over 35 killed in two weeks
On Monday, March 10, the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) called on Governor Monday Okpebholo and his administration to urgently address the growing insecurity in the state.
The party claimed that over 35 residents have been killed in the past two weeks, with many more suffering injuries and significant property damage.
Anthony Aziegbemi, the acting caretaker committee chairman of the PDP in the state, made the call during a press conference in Benin City. He expressed deep concern over the recent surge in violent crimes, including kidnappings and killings.
Aziegbemi pointed to the tragic deaths of Batemue Philip Ebo, Christopher Bello, and Victor Ogedengbe—a Catholic priest, a seminarian, and a vigilante commander, respectively—who were allegedly killed by militant groups and killer herdsmen in Owan East Local Government Area. He claimed that in the past two weeks, no fewer than 35 innocent lives were lost, and numerous others were injured.
“The primary responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property, and in this regard, we can categorically say that the Okpebholo-led government has failed woefully,” Aziegbemi said. He added that the state, once known for its safety under the leadership of former Governor Godwin Obaseki, has now gained a reputation for violent crimes, including kidnapping.
Aziegbemi further questioned the governor’s commitment to security, asking why key security measures—such as surveillance systems, communication devices, and security networks—were dismantled after Obaseki’s tenure. He also asked how many Security Council meetings Governor Okpebholo had held since taking office and the quality of those meetings.
In response, Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, dismissed the PDP’s claims, calling them exaggerated and politically motivated. He stated that the administration had taken decisive steps to enhance security across the state, including reorganizing the Edo Security Network, improving collaboration with law enforcement, and investing in modern security infrastructure.
Itua emphasized that while no society is completely free from security challenges, Edo State has made significant progress in tackling insecurity. He pointed to the procurement of modern security equipment, the deployment of personnel to identify hotspots, and the establishment of a rapid response mechanism to address security concerns swiftly.
“Governor Okpebholo remains committed to fostering a safe environment for residents and businesses,” Itua added. “These proactive measures are already yielding positive results, and efforts to discredit the progress made will not change the reality of a state moving towards greater security and stability.”
