….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