Davidson Ogbebor

BENIN CITY– Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called for stronger collaboration between the state government and traditional rulers to combat insecurity and other criminal activities across the 18 local government areas of the state.

The governor made the appeal on Thursday while receiving traditional rulers from Edo Central and Edo North Senatorial Districts during a courtesy visit to Government House, Benin City.

Governor Okpebholo described traditional rulers as indispensable partners in the fight against crime, noting that their close relationship with local communities places them in a strategic position to support ongoing security efforts.

“There are so many security challenges, and the best people to help me fight insecurity are the traditional rulers. You know your communities because you know those who live there and those coming into the area,” the governor said.

He observed that investigations into recent kidnapping incidents had revealed the involvement of local collaborators who possessed detailed knowledge of residents’ movements and financial status.

“Our people know those who are wealthy and those who are not. They know the movement of people within the community. If we must stop insecurity in Edo State, we must work together to achieve this purpose,” he added.

Governor Okpebholo urged the royal fathers not to provide protection or encouragement to criminal elements, stressing the need to discourage young people from engaging in crime.

“Let nobody encourage crime. Our children should not be involved. They should understand that crime is dangerous. The President is not happy about the security situation in the country, and I am not happy as well,” he said.

The governor also appealed to the traditional rulers to mobilise support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the next presidential election, expressing confidence that Edo State could deliver significant votes for the President.

Responding on behalf of the visiting monarchs, the Ojuromi of Uromi, HRM Anslem Edenojie II, passed a vote of confidence in Governor Okpebholo, commending his administration’s developmental strides across Edo State.

The monarch assured the governor of the continued support and cooperation of traditional rulers in promoting peace, security and sustainable development throughout the state.