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

By Davidson Ogbebor

BENIN CITY — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Thursday issued a strong warning to kidnappers, cultists and other criminal elements operating in the state, declaring that his administration would pursue their prosecution and ensure they face the full weight of the law.

The governor made the remarks during a parade of suspects at the headquarters of the Edo State Police Command in Benin City, where he also rewarded police officers involved in the arrest of a suspect linked to the kidnapping incident that occurred at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road on Sunday.

Addressing the suspects and security personnel, Okpebholo said his administration was determined to rid the state of criminality through swift prosecution and enhanced collaboration with security agencies.

He disclosed plans to establish a special court to handle kidnapping and cultism-related cases in order to accelerate the judicial process and ensure offenders are brought to justice without unnecessary delays.

The governor said he immediately directed the Commissioner of Police to ensure the arrest of those responsible for the Vegetable Market kidnapping following reports of the incident.

According to him, one suspect has been arrested in connection with the crime, another was killed during a police operation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend two other fleeing members of the gang.

Okpebholo stressed that criminals would find no safe haven in Edo State, adding that security agencies had been placed on high alert to track down offenders and their sponsors.

He maintained that the state government would continue to support security agencies in their efforts to safeguard lives and property across Edo.

The governor also defended the Federal Government’s approach to security, saying the progress being recorded by security agencies reflects the support being provided by the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

He urged residents, particularly young people, to avoid involvement in criminal activities and instead pursue legitimate means of livelihood.

As a show of appreciation for their efforts, Governor Okpebholo presented a cash reward of N10 million to the police officers who participated in the operation that led to the arrest of the kidnapping suspect.

Speaking during the event, Edo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Monday Agbonika, said investigations were continuing and assured residents that efforts were being intensified to apprehend the remaining members of the gang.

He disclosed that exhibits recovered from the suspect included a red Lexus RX 350 sport utility vehicle with registration number EKP 848 AE, a pump-action shotgun, two live cartridges, a motorcycle and N2.25 million suspected to be proceeds of criminal activities.

Agbonika thanked Governor Okpebholo for his continued support to the police command and also expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, for his leadership and guidance.

He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property and called on members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to assist security agencies in combating crime.

David Ogbebor

BENIN CITY – Excitement is building among residents and traders in Benin City following the announcement by Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, that the ongoing Ramat Park Flyover project is expected to be commissioned in November.

Governor Okpebholo made the disclosure on Wednesday during an inspection tour of the project site, where he expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work being carried out.

Speaking to journalists after the inspection, the governor noted that the flyover project had recorded significant progress, while the surrounding road network and drainage infrastructure were also receiving attention.

“We have gone round to assess the level of progress on the Ramat Park Flyover project. Beyond the flyover itself, the road network within the area is equally impressive,” he said.

“This place is now more beautiful than it was before. We are also making substantial progress on the stormwater drainage system around the facility.

“We are hopeful that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will commission this project in November as part of activities marking my second year in office. Before then, we would have achieved even greater progress. The park will also be completed, making this environment more attractive and befitting of a modern city.”

The governor described the area as a growing tourist attraction, noting the excitement and enthusiasm displayed by residents, especially children, during the visit.

“You can see how excited the children and residents are. They are happy and having fun, and that is the essence of governance,” he added.

Okpebholo also commended the Federal Government’s fuel subsidy removal policy, stating that the decision had enhanced the financial capacity of state governments and enabled them to meet key developmental obligations through increased federal allocations.

Providing an update on the project, the Project Manager, Li Jianshou, disclosed that the flyover was more than 95 per cent completed.

According to him, the remaining aspects of the work include the installation of streetlights, expansion of adjoining junctions, road markings, and painting of the bridge.

He assured residents that the project would be ready for commissioning in November, in line with the governor’s projection.

Residents and traders who thronged the project site during the inspection commended the administration for the transformation taking place in the area.

A resident, Mrs. Queen Ehanire, said the project had significantly improved the appearance of the Ikpoba Hill axis and restored confidence among residents and business owners.

“Benin City is more beautiful today than it was in previous years. Governor Okpebholo has done well with this project,” she said.

Another resident, Mr. James Osaigbovo, expressed optimism that the completed flyover would attract more visitors and stimulate commercial activities within the area.

Similarly, a commercial driver, Mr. David Uwadia, said the redesigned park and improved road infrastructure would help reduce traffic congestion and enhance transportation around Ramat Park.

Signed:

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

June 18, 2026

Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued four kidnapped victims during sustained operations targeting a notorious bandit kingpin, Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani, and members of his gang in Katsina State.

The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, disclosed this in a statement issued to newsmen.

According to the statement, the rescued victims are; Musa Yakuba, Sa’adu Dayi, Mukhtar Danja, and Salisu Danja.

It explained that the victims regained their freedom during ongoing military operations in locations believed to be strongholds of the criminal group.

The statement added that medical personnel immediately attended to the victims, who sustained gunshot wounds while in captivity.

The Katsina state government commended the bravery, professionalism and commitment of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies involved in the operation, noting that their relentless efforts are yielding positive results in the fight against banditry and kidnapping.

The government assured citizens that security forces remain on the trail of Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani and other criminal elements, stressing that operations will continue until all those responsible for acts of terror against innocent citizens are apprehended and brought to justice.

It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and pledged to continue working closely with security agencies to ensure that criminal elements have no safe haven anywhere in Katsina state.

By Davidson Ogbebor

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State has officially flagged off its campaign for the forthcoming local government elections, with party leaders expressing confidence in securing victory at the polls.

The campaign flag-off ceremony, held at Eribo Estate along Textile Mill Road, Benin City, attracted party stakeholders, supporters, youth groups, women associations, and ward executives from across the ten wards of the local government area.

Speaking at the event, APC leaders described the large turnout as a demonstration of the party’s growing popularity and acceptance among residents of Egor.

Among dignitaries present were the APC Chairman in Egor Local Government Area, Chief Emmanuel Iyase; Barrister Gentleman Amegor; the State Publicity Secretary of the APC, Hon. Osarobo Idehen; the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Edo State Government, Hon. Pius Alile; and the Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Hon. Nosa Adams.

The ceremony featured the formal presentation of party flags to APC councillorship candidates representing the ten wards in the local government area, signalling the commencement of grassroots campaigns ahead of the election.

Party leaders who addressed the gathering expressed confidence in the competence and credibility of the candidates, noting that their grassroots connection and commitment to public service would enhance the party’s chances at the polls.

The event also attracted prominent APC figures, including Hon. Osaze Igbinovia (popularly known as SAZY), APC flagbearer for the Egor/Ikpoba-Okha Federal Constituency; Hon. Jennifer Osarumwense Iyamu, APC flagbearer for Egor Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly; Hon. Ikpomwosa Aitusi, APC flagbearer for Ikpoba-Okha Constituency; and former Chairman of Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Council, Hon. Sunny Ogbewe.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the party’s flag to the APC chairmanship candidate for Egor Local Government Council, Hon. Osaro Osa Eribo. The presentation was greeted with cheers and applause from supporters, who expressed optimism about the party’s prospects in the election.

Addressing party members, leaders urged supporters to remain united and committed throughout the campaign period, stressing the importance of mobilizing voters across the local government area.

They maintained that the enthusiasm displayed at the campaign flag-off reflected the confidence of party members and supporters in the APC’s ability to win the forthcoming local government elections and deliver effective governance at the grassroots level.

The Edo State Government has assured residents that forests and farmlands across the state will soon become safer with the recruitment and ongoing training of forest guards drawn from indigenous populations in local government areas and host communities.

Chief Press Secretary to Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, disclosed this during a radio programme, ‘AS E DE HOT, a pidgin English programme on OJ FM radio, explaining that the decision to recruit locals was aimed at strengthening security operations through their knowledge of the terrain.

“These are people who know the environment. They understand the forests, the pathways, and the communities. That local knowledge is a major advantage in securing rural areas and protecting farmers who depend on these lands,” Ebojele said.

He stated that the initiative was part of Governor Okpebholo’s wider security strategy to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies and improve surveillance in rural communities that have been vulnerable to criminal activities.

Speaking on last Sunday’s abduction of a woman at the Vegetable Market in Benin City, the Chief Press Secretary said the Edo State Police Command had commenced investigation immediately after the Governor directed security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators were apprehended.

According to him, the incident was receiving urgent attention, adding that security operatives were working tirelessly to track down those behind the crime.

“The Governor gave a clear directive, and the Police Command is acting on it. We want the family and members of the public to know that this matter is being treated with urgency. The perpetrators will be identified and brought to justice,” he said.

Ebojele also cautioned social media users and online platforms against sensationalising security-related incidents, noting that exaggerated reports could create unnecessary panic and affect ongoing security operations.

He acknowledged that insecurity remains a challenge in Nigeria and other parts of the world but maintained that Governor Okpebholo had made significant investments in security personnel, equipment and intelligence gathering since assuming office.

“When Governor Okpebholo came into office, the security situation in Edo State was a major concern. Since then, he has invested heavily in personnel, equipment and intelligence infrastructure. The improvement is evident. We are not where we were, and we will continue working until our people are fully protected,” Ebojele said.

He urged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities to security agencies and support ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security across the state.

….Warns Pastors Against Interceding for Arrested Suspects

BENIN CITY — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has alleged that some residents of the state are collaborating with criminal elements from outside Edo to carry out kidnapping and other violent crimes.

The governor made the allegation while addressing participants at the 2026 Ministers’ Conference organised by the Edo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Benin City.

According to him, criminal networks operating in the state are increasingly being strengthened by local collaborators who recruit armed gangs from other parts of the country to execute kidnap-for-ransom operations.

“Do you know one funny thing — our people are now going outside Edo to recruit criminals to help them do the job. They will kidnap somebody and hand the victim over to them in the bush,” the governor said.

He further expressed concern over the growing display of unexplained wealth by some individuals, noting that criminal activities were often disguised under the pretext of internet fraud.

“Tomorrow you will see them driving expensive cars and building houses. How are they getting these things? They will tell you they are Yahoo Boys,” he added.

Governor Okpebholo urged religious leaders not to intervene on behalf of individuals arrested for criminal offences, warning that such appeals would not influence the course of justice.

“Pastors, if you hear that I have arrested somebody, don’t come to beg me,” he said.

The governor acknowledged that security challenges still exist in the state but maintained that reports of insecurity were being deliberately exaggerated by political opponents seeking to tarnish the image of his administration.

He cited a recent incident in which he received information about an alleged security breach along Sapele Road and immediately deployed security operatives to the area, only for investigations to reveal that no such incident had occurred.

“All of this is just to bring this government down, to give it a bad name. It is not that we are free, but not in the way they are hyping it,” he stated.

Okpebholo assured residents that security agencies were working tirelessly to prevent criminal elements from gaining a foothold in Edo State and reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property.

The governor also called on the congregation to offer special prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he credited with initiating reforms that have contributed to ongoing development projects in the state.

According to him, the removal of fuel subsidy, though difficult for many Nigerians, has enabled increased investment in infrastructure and development.

In her remarks, Pastor Margaret Agbonifo commended Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to faith and public service, praying for divine guidance and strength throughout his tenure.

Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of CAN in Edo State, Rev. Alfred Agbonlahor, lauded the governor for the ongoing rehabilitation of the Benin-Sapele Road, describing the project as a significant intervention for residents and motorists.

Signed

Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele
Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo

Students from two public secondary schools in Edo State have emerged champions of the Nigeria-Indonesia Bilateral International Debate Competition, defeating their Indonesian counterparts in all four debate rounds held in Jakarta, the country’s capital City.

The Edo-led Nigerian team, comprising Miss Victoria Nwaezeapu of Urora Secondary School and Master Precious Thomas of Western Boys High School, Ikpoba Hill, secured a clean 4-0 victory against students from Santa Ursula Junior High School and SMP Lab School Junior High School in Indonesia.

The competition, which featured debates on key global issues including artificial intelligence in basic education, free university education, and restrictions on public donations to political office holders and their families, showcased the intellectual ability and confidence of the Nigerian students.

The team was led to Indonesia by the Chairman of the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Omonzane Sonia Ebanehita, who described the achievement as a proud moment for Nigeria and Edo State.

Speaking during a welcome ceremony for Team Edo at the Benin Airport on Monday, June 15, 2026, Hon. Omonzane said the victory was a reflection of the state’s investment in quality education, infrastructure development, teacher recruitment, promotions, and improved welfare.

“Today, we are celebrating knowledge, confidence and the power of education. When this prestigious selection came to Edo State, I was not frightened because I knew it was based on merit and competence because of what His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, is doing in education,” she said.

She added that the students’ performance attracted admiration in Indonesia, describing their success as a product of hard work, teamwork, and the administration’s commitment to providing Edo children with a safe and conducive learning environment.

The Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Education, Mr. Enodolomwanyi Otamere, also congratulated the students, saying their achievement demonstrated the positive impact of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s investment in education and youth development.

He assured Edo students that more opportunities and achievements await them while commending the Ministry of Education and all stakeholders for supporting the growth of education in the state.

The captain of Team Edo, Master Precious Thomas, thanked Governor Okpebholo for creating opportunities for students to participate in international competitions.

He encouraged fellow students to remain committed to education, saying success should be determined by hard work, dedication, and discipline rather than background.

Also present at the welcome ceremony were the Chairman of the Edo State Senior Secondary Education Board (SSEB), Dr. Rita Otibho Erewele, and other senior officials of the Ministry of Education.

The Edo State Government has demolished a building allegedly linked to cultism and ritual-related activities and sealed another property in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, as part of its ongoing campaign against criminal activities across the state.

The operation, conducted under the state government’s “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists,” involved personnel of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies operating under the supervision of senior security officials attached to Governor Monday Okpebholo.

Speaking during the exercise, Secretary of the Edo State Security Squad, Barrister John Izegaegbe, said the action followed intelligence reports and preliminary findings from security investigations in the area.

According to him, one of the properties sealed at Ebhoijie, Uromi, was linked to an ongoing murder and alleged ritual-related investigation.

“We are here on the marching order of Governor Monday Okpebholo, and upon arriving, we discovered that it is a ritual and murder case,” Izegaegbe said.

He disclosed that security operatives discovered the decomposed body of a gateman, identified as Mildah Dalandi, inside the building. According to him, medical experts who examined the remains estimated that the body had been in the apartment for about one month before it was discovered.

Security officials said the body was found on June 2, 2026, after residents reportedly raised concerns over a strong odour emanating from the premises.

Izegaegbe stated that two suspects, identified as Eweh Favour and Eweh Bright, are currently at large and have been directed to report to the Uromi Police Divisional Headquarters or Area Command within 72 hours to assist ongoing investigations.

“The suspects are on the run, but we are giving them 72 hours to report themselves at the Uromi Police Divisional Headquarters or Area Command to clear themselves and enable further investigation into the matter,” he said.

Following the discovery, security agencies demolished a bungalow located on Dr. Ebason Street, Uromi, which officials alleged was connected to the suspects.

“This house will certainly be brought down as the government will not tolerate criminal elements in the state,” Izegaegbe stated.

He further alleged that investigations and evidence recovered from the property suggested it was being used as an initiation ground for members of a cult group.

According to him, items recovered from the premises included laptops, machetes, battle axes, native pots, candles, a red-coloured liquid suspected to be used for ritual purposes, identity documents and photographs, including one reportedly bearing the inscription, “Singapore ritualist.”

Izegaegbe said the demolition was intended to serve as a deterrent to individuals involved in criminal activities across the state.

“This building is going down to serve as a deterrent to other criminal elements who are engaged in criminal activities in Edo State. We are warning them to leave the state or have themselves to be blamed, as the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration will not tolerate them causing havoc in the state,” he said.

The Edo State Government said investigations into the matter are ongoing and reiterated its commitment to dismantling criminal networks and strengthening security across communities in the state.