The Director-General of the Edo State Tourism Agency, Mrs Vivian Elabor, has warned residents against dumping refuse in the state’s moats, stating that offenders will face stiff penalties.

Elabor issued the warning on Wednesday while addressing journalists in Benin City. She expressed concern that many of the moats are currently being used as refuse dumps, despite their historical and cultural significance.

According to her, the agency is committed to educating the public on the importance of preserving the moats, which were originally constructed by the ancestors to protect communities.

“Today, many people do not appreciate the value of the moats. The outside world understands the importance of preserving tourist sites, and we want our people to have the same understanding,” she said.

She emphasized that the agency is working tirelessly to restore and preserve the moats as part of Edo State’s rich cultural heritage.

“There will be stiff penalties for anyone caught disposing of waste in the moats. We must preserve our heritage and restore the legacy of the moats,” she added.

The Director-General noted that Edo State is blessed with numerous tourist attractions, with about 72 tourism sites spread across the state. She stressed that these sites remain largely underutilized and have great potential for economic growth.

Elabor further stated that the agency intends to use tourism as a tool for job creation and to boost the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

“Edo State must reduce its dependence on allocations from the centre. Tourism has a critical role to play in driving economic development, and we are determined to make Edo a leading tourism destination,” she said.

She revealed that the agency’s upcoming summit, themed ‘Edo Tourism: The New Frontier Exhibition and Fashion Show,’ is aimed at promoting the state’s rich culture and heritage.

Among the notable tourist attractions and cultural festivals highlighted were Igun Street, the Igue Festival, the Ososo Festival, the Ubiaja Festival, and the Amar Waterfall in Esanland.

Also speaking, the Director of Administration and Supplies, Mrs. Kushe Ojekhoa, announced that the 2026 Tourism Summit, Exhibition, and Fashion Show will hold from June 29 to June 30.

Ojekhoa added that winners of the fashion show will receive cash prizes, while all participants will be rewarded with participation fees to encourage creativity and support emerging talents.

AbujaThe Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday adjourned ruling on an application seeking the restoration of bail for activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, until June 30, even as the Department of State Services (DSS) defended its prosecution of the former presidential candidate and ordered an investigation into the courtroom incident that followed his remand.

Sowore, who was remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre on Monday, will remain in custody pending the court’s ruling on his application.

Justice Mohammed Umar fixed June 30 for ruling after hearing arguments from Sowore’s legal team in the trial brought against him by the DSS over alleged cybercrime and defamatory social media posts against President Bola Tinubu.

At Wednesday’s proceedings, Sowore’s counsel, R.O. Adakole, who appeared for lead counsel, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika (SAN), urged the court to release the defendant to his lawyers pending the determination of the application seeking the restoration of his bail.

The defence argued that Sowore had consistently attended court proceedings since the commencement of the trial and had not jumped bail. It therefore asked the court to exercise its discretion in his favour and release him pending a ruling on the application.

Justice Umar, however, declined the request, saying he needed time to study the affidavits and processes filed by both parties before delivering a ruling. He subsequently adjourned the matter to June 30.

Sowore was remanded on June 22 after the court ordered that he be kept in custody pending the hearing of his application to set aside the revocation of his bail and the bench warrant earlier issued against him.

The court had on June 16 revoked Sowore’s bail after the prosecution, led by DSS counsel, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), informed the court that the defendant failed to appear for trial. Justice Umar had also dismissed an application by Sowore seeking the judge’s recusal from the case on grounds of alleged bias.

Amid public reactions to Sowore’s remand and the drama that followed in court, the DSS on Tuesday issued a statement defending its actions and insisting that the issues leading to his remand arose from court proceedings rather than any action by the Service.

In the statement signed by its Deputy Director, Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, the DSS said it had noted concerns over the events at the Federal High Court in Abuja on June 22, especially the altercation involving Sowore, an official of the Nigerian Correctional Service and DSS operatives.

The agency disclosed that its Director-General had ordered an immediate investigation into the conduct of operatives involved in the incident.

“Of more concern is the scene depicting Sowore’s altercation with an official of the Custodial Centre and a seeming scuffle with operatives of the Service,” the statement said.

The DSS, however, maintained that Sowore’s trial stemmed from a post he made on his personal X and Facebook accounts on August 25, 2025, in which he allegedly described President Tinubu in disparaging terms.

According to the Service, rather than arrest Sowore immediately, it wrote him on September 4, 2025, demanding a retraction within one week. It said the move was in line with the policy of the current DSS leadership to resolve such matters without force before resorting to judicial interpretation.

The agency said its handling of the matter was consistent with its approach in other public disputes, including the case involving Prof. Pat Utomi’s “shadow government”, as well as disputes with media organisations over reports alleging invasions of the Lagos State House of Assembly and the National Assembly complex by DSS operatives.

The Service said that in those cases it sought legal redress or demanded public apologies, and withdrew charges after retractions were made.

On Sowore’s case, the DSS said it filed charges under Section 24 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, in suit No. FHC/ABJ/CR/481/2025, pursuant to SSS Instrument No. 1 of 1999 and the National Security Agencies Act of 1986.

It said the suit was filed to seek judicial interpretation on whether Sowore had the right to disparage and cyberbully the President through social media posts.

The Service also stressed that Sowore was initially granted bail on self-recognition without a surety at the commencement of the trial, and that it neither opposed the bail application nor arrested him in connection with the remand proceedings.

“From the foregoing, it is clear the issues that led to his bail revocation and subsequent remand were entirely premised on the court processes, as the Service neither arrested nor opposed his bail,” the statement added.

With the ruling on his bail application now fixed for June 30, Sowore is expected to remain in Kuje custody pending the court’s decision.

Davidson Ogbebor

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States Department of the Treasury has sanctioned a Nigerian national and three Nigeria-based financial services companies for allegedly facilitating financial transactions on behalf of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

In a statement issued by the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), authorities announced sanctions against Mukhtar Adamu Muhammad, identified as an ISIS-West Africa (ISIS-WA) financial facilitator who allegedly conducted money transfers for the terrorist organization.

According to the U.S. Treasury, three Nigerian companies allegedly owned, controlled, or directed by Muhammad were also designated. The companies are:

• Nine to Nine Exchange Bureau de Change Limited
• Manhattan Bureau de Change Limited
• Generation Currency Bureau de Change Limited

The Treasury alleged that the firms were used to facilitate financial activities linked to ISIS-West Africa. As a result of the sanctions, any property or interests in property belonging to the designated entities that fall within U.S. jurisdiction are blocked, and U.S. persons are generally prohibited from conducting transactions with them.

The sanctions formed part of a broader action targeting three individuals and six entities across Europe, the Middle East, and West Africa accused of facilitating financial transactions for ISIS. U.S. officials said the move was aimed at disrupting the terrorist group’s ability to transfer funds among its regional affiliates and sustain operations.

Treasury officials stated that the United States would continue working with international partners, including Nigeria, to combat terrorism financing and dismantle financial networks supporting extremist organizations.

The Treasury designation constitutes an administrative sanctions action and does not by itself amount to a criminal conviction. However, it imposes significant restrictions on access to the international financial system and can have far-reaching consequences for affected individuals and businesses.

Benin City- The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has congratulated fathers across the state on the occasion of Fathers’ Day, commending their sacrifices and contributions to family development while urging them to play a more active role in protecting their children from criminal activities.

In a message marking the annual celebration, the governor praised fathers who continue to raise their children with discipline, faith, responsibility and strong moral values, describing fatherhood as one of the most important responsibilities entrusted to men.

According to him, the future of society largely depends on the quality of values instilled in children within the family setting.

“Every father who wakes up daily, works hard, sacrifices for his family and raises his children in the fear of God deserves to be celebrated. Your efforts, love and commitment are recognised and appreciated,” he said.

Governor Okpebholo called on fathers across Edo State to be more deliberate in their responsibilities as heads of their families by paying closer attention to their children’s activities, associations and decisions.

He urged parents to educate their children on the dangers of cultism, kidnapping, internet fraud and other criminal activities, noting that the consequences of crime often extend beyond the individual offender to affect entire families.

“We have seen families lose their peace, properties destroyed and the future of young people ruined because of involvement in criminal activities. Many of these situations could have been prevented through early guidance and proper parental supervision,” the governor stated.

The governor further noted that his administration had intensified efforts to combat kidnapping, cultism and other violent crimes through enhanced security measures and plans to establish special courts for the speedy prosecution of offenders.

He warned that individuals involved in criminal activities would face the full weight of the law, stressing that the era of impunity was over in the state.

“No father should have to watch his child lose his future because of crime. This is why parents must remain involved, provide direction and help their children make the right choices,” he added.

Governor Okpebholo wished fathers in Edo State and across Nigeria a happy and fulfilling Fathers’ Day celebration, while encouraging them to continue serving as positive role models to their children and communities.

Davidson Ogbebor

Fourteen suspects have been arrested in connection with a cult-related killing in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, during a major security operation carried out by the Edo State Security Squad, codenamed Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists.

The arrests followed the killing of a middle-aged man at Abiodun Motor Park, Jattu Junction, where suspected cultists reportedly opened fire, causing panic among residents, commuters and business operators who fled for safety.

In response to the incident, the Chief Security Officer (CSO) and Principal Security Officer (PSO) to Governor Monday Okpebholo, alongside other security agencies, launched coordinated raids on suspected criminal hideouts across Edo North Senatorial District.

During the operation, security personnel demolished Abiodun Motor Park and the Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) park at Jattu Junction. The squad also raided Triple J & J Hotel in Aviele, as well as locations in Igbira Camp, Warrake Road and Akpekpe, targeting suspected criminal hideouts.

Fourteen suspects were arrested at the hotel in Aviele following intelligence reports indicating that the killing was allegedly planned there. Investigators believe the suspects moved from the hotel to carry out the attack at the motor park.

Following the arrests, the hotel was sealed by the authorities. The security team subsequently moved to Igbira Camp to apprehend a prime suspect, identified as Anefi Kassim, but he was not found at his residence.

Preliminary investigations reportedly linked Kassim to the Juris Confraternity. Another suspect, Idris Mustapha, who is also currently at large, was similarly implicated in the case. Authorities disclosed that both men are members of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) and have been directed to report to the Area Command in Auchi within 24 hours.

The squad also ordered the Auchi Sector Commander of the ESSC to produce both suspects for questioning and possible prosecution.

Speaking on the operation, a member and spokesperson of the security squad, Eribo Ewanta, said Governor Okpebholo had directed security agencies to restore peace in the area and ensure the arrest of all those involved in the killing.

“We have arrested several suspects connected to the incident, and they are providing useful information that will assist security agencies in tracking down other suspects, including the alleged mastermind of the attack,” Ewanta said.

He reiterated the state government’s commitment to combating crime, stressing that criminal elements would no longer find Edo State a safe haven.

Ewanta explained that the parks at Jattu Junction were demolished because they allegedly continued to operate and collect revenue despite the state government’s ban on unauthorized revenue collection.

“The governor has prohibited illegal revenue collection across the state. Investigations revealed that such activities were still ongoing at the parks. The property will now be put to use for the benefit of the people through developmental projects,” he said.

At the residence of the prime suspect, Ewanta maintained that investigations indicated that the conflict leading to the killing originated from activities linked to Kassim.

“We are giving the ESSC Sector Commander in Auchi 24 hours to produce Anefi Kassim and Idris Mustapha, who are key suspects in this case. Failure to do so will result in them being declared wanted,” he added.

The investigation into the killing is ongoing, while security agencies continue efforts to apprehend other suspects believed to be connected to the crime.

By Dr Patrick Akhere Ebojele

When Governor Monday Okpebholo appeared before a parade of suspected kidnappers and cultists at the Edo State Police Command Headquarters in Benin City last week, it was an official and practical demonstration of his commitment to a safer and secure Edo State as Chief Executive. It was also to give vent to Security, the first aspect of his governance model- Project SHINE. He announced plans to establish special courts for their speedy prosecution and he was not merely making a policy statement. He was responding to a critical gap in the state’s fight against insecurity.

Not used to allow grass grow between his ideas and implementation, the Governor has since moved beyond announcement. In a letter signed by the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, dated June 19, 2026, he formally requested the Chief Judge of Edo State to constitute special courts dedicated to the speedy trial of kidnapping and cultism-related cases. The request is for the nomination of three judges — or any number the Chief Judge considers appropriate — to establish the special courts.

That is the essence of purposeful governance which is the hallmark of the New Edo: identifying a challenge, designing a solution and immediately activating the institutions required to deliver results.

Fact is across Nigeria, one of the biggest obstacles in the criminal justice system remains delay. Serious criminal cases often take years to conclude. Witnesses become difficult to trace, evidence weakens over time, victims lose confidence, and accused persons remain in custody for extended periods without final judgment. The consequences are severe. A justice system that moves slowly can weaken public confidence and reduce the deterrent effect of the law.

For criminals, uncertainty about the speed of prosecution can create a dangerous calculation — that arrest may not immediately lead to punishment. This is the gap Edo State’s proposed special courts are designed to address. But the argument maybe that there are existing laws. The issue is not the absence of laws. Nigeria and Edo State have enacted strong legal frameworks against serious crimes. The challenge is ensuring that those laws are applied efficiently and decisively.

For Governor Okpebholo, the proposed special courts will provide a focused judicial structure for handling cases involving kidnapping and cultism. With dedicated judges and a specialised mandate, such courts can reduce delays, improve case management and ensure that justice is delivered within a reasonable period.

Such specialised courts are not unusual in countries facing serious security threats. There are examples from Pakistan and and Saudi Arabia to name a few. Several jurisdictions have created dedicated judicial structures to handle terrorism, organised crime and national security offences because ordinary court processes are often overwhelmed by the complexity and volume of such cases.

Edo State is therefore adopting a practical approach: matching the speed of criminal investigations and arrests with a judicial process capable of delivering timely outcomes. The decision to focus on kidnapping and cultism together is deliberate. In many communities across the state, organised criminal activities thrive through networks involving recruitment, intimidation, illegal financing and territorial control. Cult groups often provide structures that can support other violent crimes, including kidnapping. Addressing one without confronting the other leaves room for criminal networks to regenerate.

Recent security operations in Edo State show the scale of the challenge. Between March and May 2026, the Edo State Police Command reported the arrest of 119 suspects and the rescue of 58 kidnapping victims during intensified operations against violent crimes. Behind those figures are individuals crippled with apprehension, families devastated by fear, communities disrupted by criminal activities and a society demanding stronger protection.

The judicial system must therefore move at the same pace as security operations. Arrests alone cannot deliver lasting justice. The establishment of special courts is the next logical step in the security architecture being developed by the Governor Okpebholo administration since it assumed office.

Earlier the legal framework against cultism has been strengthened through reforms to the state’s anti-cultism law, introducing tougher penalties for cult-related offences, sponsors of criminal groups and individuals who assist offenders.

Governor Okpebholo has also strengthened the legal response against kidnapping, prescribing severe penalties for offenders, including the death sentence where victims lose their lives, life imprisonment for certain kidnapping offences and lengthy prison terms for accomplices. These laws have laid the foundation. The special courts will provide the mechanism for effective enforcement. A strong law without timely prosecution cannot fully achieve its purpose. The new judicial structure is aimed at closing that gap.

Legal experts will argue that the effectiveness of any criminal justice system depends not only on the severity of punishment but also on the certainty and speed of enforcement. They know that when criminals know that cases will be handled quickly and decisively, the deterrent effect of the law becomes stronger. Governor Okpebholo has made it abundantly clear that criminal activities will not be tolerated and that those found guilty must face the full consequences provided by law.

The endorsement of the proposal by stakeholders, including Senator Joseph Ikpea, representing Edo Central Senatorial District, reflects growing support for measures aimed at restoring security and confidence across the state. The message is simple: security agencies must arrest offenders, prosecutors must present cases effectively, and the courts must deliver justice without unnecessary delay.

For victims of kidnapping and families affected by violent crimes, justice delayed often feels like justice denied. A rescued victim and an arrested suspect represent only the beginning of the process. The final test is whether the criminal justice system can successfully prosecute offenders and secure convictions. The Special courts will ensure that serious security cases receive the attention they require. They will help prevent criminal cases from disappearing into years of legal delays and assure citizens that government action does not end at arrest.

Dr. Ebojele has his PhD in Public Administration and is the Chief Press to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State

Davidson Ogbebor

The Edo State Judiciary may soon constitute special courts to ensure the speedy trial of cases involving kidnapping and cult-related offences across the state.

Sources indicated that Governor Monday Okpebholo has requested the Chief Judge of Edo State to nominate three judges, or any number deemed appropriate, to constitute the proposed courts.

If approved, the special courts will be mandated to hear and determine cases relating to kidnapping and cultism on an accelerated basis, with the aim of reducing delays in prosecution and strengthening the administration of criminal justice.

The move follows Governor Okpebholo’s recent declaration during the parade of suspected kidnappers at the headquarters of the Edo State Police Command in Benin City on June 18, 2026. Addressing journalists at the event, the governor announced plans to establish a dedicated court to facilitate the swift prosecution of offenders.

“We are going to set up a special court to prosecute kidnappers and cultists,” he said.

However, it could not be independently verified whether the Chief Judge has formally received the governor’s request or when a decision on the proposal may be made.

The initiative has already received support from lawmakers. Senator Joseph Ikpea, who represents Edo Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, described the proposed court as a bold and necessary step towards tackling the growing challenge of insecurity in the state.

Observers say that if established, the special courts would represent one of the most significant judicial interventions in recent years aimed at combating kidnapping and cult-related crimes in Edo State.

The proposed measure is expected to complement ongoing security operations by the state government and law enforcement agencies in the fight against criminal activities.

Stakeholders have on Friday in Benin advocated for a regular exercise, water intake, adequate sleep and medical check up for men to remain healthy to increase productivity in their work place.

They speak at an Executive Men’s Wellness Session, with the theme” Men’s Health Matters: Taking Responsibility for a Healthier Future”, organised by Edo State Health Insurance Commission (EDOHIC), in commemoration of Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month.

A Resource Person, Dr Rasheed Abassi, who speaks extensively at the programme, warned men from sitting for too long and avoid excess consumption of salt to avoid prostrate cancer and high blood pressure.

According to him, I want every Edo man to take advantage of the type of governance that they have, number one, health is wealth, we can not just minimised that.

“Go for regular walking, if you walk 15 minutes in the morning and walk 15 minutes at night, its lower high blood pressure, it reduces the risk of hypertension, it reduces the risk of diabetes and prostrate cancer.

“Prolonged sitting is the new smoking, smoking comes with a lot of dangerous factors, let’s avoid salt, salt consumption is killing us, don’t go home after your work and then add salt in everything your wife has cooked or you are eating.

“Because that salt will creates problems, wherever salt goes, water goes, and that water will increase your blood pressure and with blood pressure all other bad stuff comes around,” he said.

Abassi, however, urged all the men in Edo to take advantage of the Edo state health insurance schedule which according to him is currently free to get registered and have access to primary healthcare.

In his goodwill message, Dr Cyril Oshiomhole, recommended adequate water intake for men, adding that science has adequately proven that regular water intake is one of the most effective ways to avoid kidney stones

“Today I want to leave us with a simple message, drink more water, relax, exercise eat better and fast wisely, I recommend water fast, it can be proven scientifically that fasting also helps.

“Pay attention to your mental health, socialised, pour out your mind, water is life many health challenges can be reduced by maintaining adequate hydration,” he said.

In her remarks, Dr Augusta Ikpea-Enaholo, the Director General of Edo State Health Insurance Commission (EDOHIC), advocated for a routine health screenings such as blood pressure checks, diabetes tests among others for men to remain healthy.

Ikpea-Enaholo further maintained that prostate examinations, healthy eating habits, physical activity, adequate rest, and effective stress management can significantly reduce the risk of serious health conditions and improve overall quality of life.

A participant, Mr Benjamin Oje, thanked the organisers of the programme for organising an enlightened and educative event that has exposed a lot of participants to things they don’t know before now.

The Edo State Government has announced the arrest of an alleged kingpin of a kidnapping syndicate linked to several abduction cases in Uromi and neighbouring communities, as part of its intensified crackdown on kidnapping, cultism and other criminal activities across the state.

The suspect, identified as Christian Okoduwa, is currently in police custody in Benin City, while his residence located on Thursday Street, off Amedokhian Road, Uromi, has been demolished following investigations and intelligence reports by security agencies.

The Secretary of the Edo State Security Squad, codenamed Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists, Barrister John Izegaegbe, disclosed this during an operation in Uromi.

According to Izegaegbe, investigations allegedly linked Okoduwa to a network involved in coordinating kidnapping activities in the area.

He alleged that the suspect recruited and brought criminal elements from neighbouring states and communities into Uromi to carry out kidnapping operations.

“This building behind me, which has been demolished, belongs to one Christian Okoduwa, who has been linked to a chain of kidnapping activities in Uromi. Investigations indicate that he allegedly brought criminal elements from neighbouring states and communities into the area to engage in kidnapping,” Izegaegbe said.

He further alleged that several suspects arrested in connection with kidnapping incidents in Uromi and its environs had linked Okoduwa and members of his syndicate to the crimes.

“All arrests made in Uromi and its environs have allegedly been traced to him and his syndicate, who have been terrorising residents. Investigations revealed that he played a central role in some of the most serious kidnapping incidents recorded in the area,” he added.

Izegaegbe explained that the demolition of the building was carried out in line with the state government’s policy against the use of properties for criminal activities.

“This demolition is the result of alleged kidnapping activities linked to the property. Any building found to have been used for such criminal purposes will be demolished in accordance with the law and government directives,” he said.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of residents across the state.

“The government is determined to rid Edo State of criminal elements. Those found engaging in kidnapping, cultism and other crimes will face the full weight of the law,” he stated.

Patrick Akhere Ebojele
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State

By Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele

The recent insecurity challenge in Edo State revealed a difficult reality that many would rather not confront: criminals do not operate in isolation. Behind many acts of kidnapping, robbery, and violent crime, anywhere, are networks of informants, sponsors, and collaborators who provide the support that allows evil to thrive.

This uncomfortable truth is what Governor Monday Okpebholo brought to the attention of Edo people recently.He exposed the fact that the fight against crime is not only about chasing men with weapons but also about exposing those who quietly assist them.

The governor’s warning came after the shocking kidnapping incident at the Vegetable Market Off Airport Road in Benin City, where a mother was abducted in broad daylight in the presence of her husband and children from a stationary vehicle. The incident sparked public anger and concern, but it also demonstrated the determination of the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration to respond, and it did decisively.

Immediately after the incident, Governor Okpebholo directed security agencies to act. The result days after was the arrest by men of the State Police Command of a suspect linked to the crime, the killing of another suspect during the operation, and ongoing efforts to apprehend other members of the gang.

Rather than treating the incident as an isolated criminal act, Governor Okpebholo used the opportunity to address a deeper problem: the presence of individuals within communities who provide assistance to criminal groups.

At a meeting with Christian ministers in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo alleged that some residents were involved in recruiting criminals from outside Edo State, supplying information about potential victims and sharing proceeds from kidnappings. He also warned religious leaders against pleading for the release of arrested suspects without understanding the seriousness of the allegations against them.

Every successful kidnapping operation requires more than weapons. Criminals need knowledge of the environment, information about victims, safe routes, and places to hide. Those who provide such support are not innocent bystanders; they are partners in crime. This is what the governor’s position is about because insecurity can not be defeated when criminals enjoy sympathy, protection, or information from within the communities they attack.

This is why Governor Okpebholo’s message is important. He is calling on Edo people to recognise that the fight against insecurity is not government property but a collective responsibility. Communities – villages, residents, and families must stop protecting criminals; they must stop celebrating suspicious wealth and begin reporting individuals whose activities raise legitimate concerns.

The governor’s decision to reward police officers involved in the arrest of a suspect connected to the Vegetable Market kidnapping also shows the importance of motivating security personnel who risk their lives to protect citizens.

By presenting N10 million to the operatives, Governor Okpebholo sent a clear message that his administration values effective policing and will support security agencies in their efforts to restore peace across Edo State.

The recovery of items linked to the suspect, including a vehicle, firearm, ammunition, and suspected proceeds of crime, further underscores the seriousness of the security threat and the need for sustained action.

Governor Okpebholo’s idea for a special court to handle cases involving kidnappers and cultists also reflects the frustration of residents who have suffered from repeated criminal attacks. While every punishment must follow due legal process, there is a strong argument that violent criminal cases should not be allowed to drag endlessly while victims continue to suffer.

How can a society develop when fear controls the movement of its people? Businesses can not grow when traders worry about being kidnapped. Investors can not confidently commit resources where insecurity threatens lives and property. Life can come to a standstill as a result.

This is why the governor’s security approach is central to his broader development agenda. Roads, schools, hospitals, and economic projects can only deliver their full benefits when citizens are safe enough to use them.

By and large, the central issue remains undeniable: criminal collaboration is a major obstacle in the fight against insecurity. Ignoring it will only empower those who profit from the suffering of others.

Edo people must, therefore, support the governor’s deliberate efforts to expose and isolate criminal elements within communities. Religious leaders, traditional institutions, youth groups, and residents all have roles to play in ensuring that criminals no longer find protection among the people they harm.

Governor Okpebholo’s message is not simply about punishment; it is about restoring responsibility and rebuilding a culture where crime is rejected, reported, and confronted. The enemy threatening our peace may sometimes come with weapons, but sometimes, he lives quietly among us, hiding behind normal appearances while supporting criminal activities.

That enemy must be exposed. And defeating him requires the cooperation of every responsible citizen.

Dr. Ebojele has his PhD. in Public Administration and is the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo