… Cracks down on criminal hideouts
… Orders demolition of criminal dens, warns landlords across Edo
In a decisive move to uphold traditional law and reinforce public security, the Edo State Government has removed three traditional rulers and intensified its campaign against criminal activities across the state.
At its meeting held on 30 April 2025, the Edo State Executive Council approved the revocation of Umoru Inusa Umoru’s appointment as Aidenogie of South Ibie in Etsako West Local Government Area based on the determination that the royal stool was never vacant at the time of his appointment.
Consequently, Alhaji Aliyu Kelvin Danesi has been reinstated as the legitimate Aidenogie of South Ibie.
Similarly, in Etsako East Local Government Area, the Council nullified the appointment of Lukman Akemokue as Okuokpellagbe of Okpella over his failure to adhere to the established customary succession laws outlined in Bendel State Legal Notice No. 132 of 1979.
Steps are now being taken to select a new ruler for Okpella in accordance with the law.
The third royal removal involved Dr George Oshiapi Egabor, who has been officially dethroned as the Okumagbe of Uwano Kingdom in Agenebode, following his earlier suspension due to rising insecurity, including multiple incidents of kidnapping and killings in his domain.
The selection of a new ruler is underway, guided by existing legal provisions.
The State Government appealed to residents of the affected communities to remain calm, assuring them of its commitment to peace, lawful governance, and the welfare of all citizens.
Meanwhile, Governor Monday Okpebholo, has warned landlords and property owners that any building linked to crimes such as kidnapping, cultism, or ritual activities will be demolished without exception.
Governor Okpebholo issued the warning during a dramatic visit to a building in the Ogheghe area of Benin City, which was razed to the ground after it was discovered to be used for internet fraud, kidnapping, and ritual practices.
Reports revealed that children were held captive in the property for years, and shrines were uncovered on site.
“This is evil of the worst kind,” said a visibly shaken Governor. “Children were kept here like prisoners. This is not just a crime, it’s an assault on humanity. Such wickedness has no place in Edo State.”
The Governor vowed to sustain the offensive against criminality: “We will go after them, wherever they are. Their hideouts will be destroyed, and we’ll use these lands to build institutions that serve the public. Here, we are planning a police station.”
The state’s anti-cultism drive has also gathered momentum with the demolition of a suspected cultist base in Amagba GRA, Benin City.
The facility, located at the end of Arena Street, included living quarters, a hall, and administrative rooms, all believed to have supported cult operations.
A moat used for initiation rites was also discovered, along with industrial water tanks donated between 2016 and 2021.
This action followed Governor Okpebholo’s signing of a new anti-cultism law that empowers the State to destroy properties associated with cult groups and violent activities.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s uncompromising stance: “No individual or institution will be spared. Whether rich or poor, known or unknown; anyone aiding cultism or criminality will face the full wrath of the law. We are determined to restore peace and make Edo safe again.”
