The Edo State Government has refuted claims that it is overwhelmed by the rising insecurity in the state, assuring residents that significant measures are being taken to address the situation.
Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, made this known while responding to concerns raised by Hon. Marcus Onobun, a member of the House of Representatives representing Esan West, Esan Central, and Igueben Federal Constituency.
During a recent plenary session, Hon. Onobun had drawn the attention of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, to what he described as frequent killings and escalating security threats in Edo State. However, Ohonbamu insisted that while the government acknowledges the security challenges, it is not overwhelmed by them.
He emphasized that Governor Okpebholo has taken swift action since assuming office, working to strengthen the state’s security framework. According to Ohonbamu, the administration has been proactive in addressing lapses inherited from the previous government by equipping security agencies with the necessary tools to combat crime effectively.
“There is no place in the world without security challenges, but a responsible government must take decisive steps to protect its citizens. That is exactly what Governor Okpebholo has been doing since he took office, and he remains committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property in Edo State,” Ohonbamu stated.
He further disclosed that the government has intensified intelligence gathering, surveillance operations, and the deployment of additional security personnel to tackle criminal activities across the state.
In a stern warning to criminals, Ohonbamu said security agencies have launched a manhunt to track down perpetrators, adding that several arrests and investigations are already yielding positive results.
“No part of Edo will be a safe haven for criminals. The security forces are actively pursuing them, and we urge residents to remain patient as the operation progresses,” he assured.
The Commissioner also highlighted the recent crackdown on kidnappers, which includes the demolition of buildings used for criminal activities in Uromi and Ekpoma. He warned landlords to properly screen their tenants, as any property found to be harboring criminals will be demolished in line with the state’s anti-kidnapping laws.
He reiterated that the Edo State Government, in collaboration with security agencies, is committed to making the state safe and habitable for all residents. Efforts such as raiding criminal hideouts and apprehending suspects for interrogation are ongoing, with reports of significant progress.
Ohonbamu urged residents to support security efforts and assured them that the state government remains fully in control of the situation.
