BENIN CITY — Governor Monday Okpebholo has condemned the killing of a youth by gunmen at the main gate of the University of Benin, describing the incident as a senseless act of violence and a threat to public safety.
The victim was reportedly shot dead in broad daylight on Sunday, an incident that sparked concern among residents and commuters around the university environment.
In a statement issued by the Edo State Government, Governor Okpebholo described the attack as brazen, cold-blooded and completely unacceptable.
According to him, the killing was an affront to human dignity and contrary to the values of his administration.
The governor expressed condolences to the family, friends and associates of the deceased, assuring them that those behind the crime would be brought to justice.
He disclosed that the Edo State Police Command had commenced investigations into the incident, while security agencies were working to identify and arrest the perpetrators.
“They may run, but they cannot hide forever,” the governor said, adding that the matter would not be swept under the carpet.
Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling cultism and violent crime across the state, noting that the government had intensified security operations in cult-prone communities since he assumed office.
He said the operations had led to the arrest and prosecution of several suspected cultists, while collaboration with the Nigerian Police Force, the Department of State Services and the Nigerian Army had helped to disrupt criminal networks operating in the state.
The governor also highlighted ongoing engagement with traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups and civil society organisations as part of efforts to curb cult violence and prevent young people from being recruited into cult groups.
He added that the state government was supporting the rehabilitation and reintegration of vulnerable youths as part of measures aimed at achieving lasting peace and security.
While acknowledging progress in the anti-cultism campaign, Okpebholo said the latest incident showed that the fight against violent crime was far from over.
“Edo State will not be a sanctuary for criminals. Those who carry arms and terrorise innocent people will face the full consequences of the law,” he stated.
The governor appealed to members of the public with useful information on the incident to assist security agencies, assuring that all information provided would be treated confidentially.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to securing lives and property across Edo State and preventing further loss of lives to cult-related violence.
