… Suspends traditional ruler over insecurity
In a decisive move to confront the escalating security crisis in Edo North, Governor Monday Okpebholo has unveiled a concrete action plan following a high-level security summit in Iyamho, Etsako West Local Government Area.
This is coming in the wake of Governor Okpebholo’s slamming of indefinitely suspension on Dr. George Oshiapi Egabor, the Okumagbe of Uwano Kingdom in Etsako East Local Government Area, over recurring incidents of kidnapping and killings in the area.
The suspension was announced in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor
The decision followed a recent attack that claimed the life of a palace chief, Late John Ikhamate. The monarch’s secretary, Chief Peter Omiogbemhi, has already been arrested in connection with the incident.
The security summit, which brought together a powerful coalition of political, religious, and traditional leaders alongside top security officials, focused on practical steps to tackle the growing threats in the region.
Addressing the gathering after the closed-door meeting, Governor Okpebholo wasted no time in declaring a full commitment to tackling crime head-on, saying, “We are done with discussions. Now, we move into action. Criminals will have no place in Edo State.”
He emphasized that immediate and far-reaching measures would be implemented to ensure the safety of the people, signaling a clear departure from mere rhetoric.
The summit was attended by an influential group, including Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; former Governor and serving Senator Adams Oshiomhole; Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, and other key political figures.
Their collective presence underscored the unified approach in addressing the region’s security challenges and highlighted the urgent need for collaborative action.
Governor Okpebholo assured that all discussions from the summit would be swiftly translated into action, with concrete steps such as deploying vehicles and motorcycles to security agencies and strengthening community cooperation with law enforcement.
“This is not just a meeting for talking; it’s a springboard for tangible outcomes,” he asserted.
Former Governor Oshiomhole praised the Governor for his proactive leadership, noting that it was the first time a sitting governor had taken such direct, hands-on steps to address security concerns in the state.
He commended Okpebholo for prioritizing the needs of the people and ensuring that security measures were being implemented effectively.
Bishop Gabriel Dunia of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi echoed this sentiment, commending the Governor for his commitment to peace and urging all stakeholders to unite for the safety of the people.
Traditional ruler, HRH, Mallam Ali Suleiman also expressed confidence in the Governor’s approach, stressing that his direct involvement had instilled renewed hope among the traditional institutions in the region.
