Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Following the trending video circulating on social media, allegedly featuring a self-acclaimed bandit issuing threats and claiming presence around Ekpoma and adjoining communities in Edo Central Senatorial District, the governor, Monday Okpebholo has held meeting with top security chiefs with the view of scaling up security and thwarting such threat.
In a statement signed by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, the government assured the people of the State that the governor has been fully briefed on the matter and has, in response, convened a high-level security meeting.
“Since assuming office, Governor Okpebholo has treated security as a top-tier priority and has not left any stone unturned in confronting emerging threats.
“Over the past weeks, the Governor has held continuous strategic security briefings and activated a statewide surveillance architecture covering key corridors, including the Benin–Auchi Expressway, Ekpoma–Uromi Road, Ehor–Iruekpen Axis, Benin Bypass, and the Ewu–Irrua–Ubiaja Route, Benin-Afuze-Auchi corridor, among others.
“These measures are designed to ensure early detection, swift response, and sustained pressure against criminal networks.
“Following the Governor’s latest directive, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), local vigilante formations, and the Edo State Special Security Squad have commenced intensified operations across forests, boundary communities, and known flashpoints.
“Search-and-comb missions are ongoing, backed by enhanced intelligence gathering and coordinated patrols to deny criminal elements safe haven anywhere within the State.
“Already, significant breakthroughs have been recorded. Arrests have been made in connection with recent security breaches, and several leads are currently being pursued.
“The government reiterates that these operations are continuous and will not cease until every inch of Edo land, urban centres, rural communities, and transit corridors are fully secured and safe for residents, commuters, and investors.
“The Edo State Government urges citizens to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with security agencies.
“Misinformation, panic-driven narratives, and unverified videos should be avoided.
“Governor Okpebholo remains resolute in his commitment to safeguarding lives and property, and his administration will continue to deploy all lawful measures to ensure that criminality has no breathing space in Edo State,” the statement added.