… Orders swift cction to apprehend perpetrators
BY BERNADETTE IDALU
The Edo State Government has expressed deep outrage over the killing of Benin-based realtor and businessman, Mr Joel Umwueni Isibor, vowing to ensure that those responsible are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice.
Mr Isibor, a 42-year-old estate developer, was reportedly attacked and shot at close range by unknown assailants who forced their way into his store last Friday evening.
In a strong show of solidarity and grief, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, visited the family of the deceased to personally convey the government’s condolences.
Speaking during the visit, Idahosa revealed that Governor Monday Okpebholo was profoundly shaken by the tragic news and had directed security agencies to leave no stone unturned in their quest to apprehend the perpetrators.
Describing Mr Isibor as a vibrant and energetic young man whose life was cut short in its prime, the Deputy Governor assured the bereaved family that the state government was fully committed to securing justice.
He issued a stern warning to criminal elements, advising them to steer clear of Edo State, as the government was determined to wield the full force of the law against anyone found to be undermining the security of its citizens.
Idahosa further disclosed that the government would be working in close collaboration with security agencies to launch a high-level investigation into the murder, stressing that no effort would be spared in tracking down those behind the heinous act.
During the emotional visit, the widow of the late Mr Isibor expressed her profound appreciation to the state government for their support during this period of immense grief.
Tearfully recounting the events leading up to her husband’s death, she explained that the assailants had laid an ambush as he attempted to lock up his shop after the day’s business. Without provocation, they opened fire, killing him instantly.
She emphasised that nothing was stolen from the premises, suggesting the attack was a carefully planned assassination rather than a random robbery.
Devastated and struggling to come to terms with her loss, Mrs Isibor described her husband as the family’s sole breadwinner and appealed passionately to the government to conduct a thorough investigation into the murder. The visit concluded on a deeply emotional note, with Deputy Governor Idahosa visibly moved by the sorrow and anguish of the grieving family.
