Governor Okpebholo Reaffirms Commitment to Grassroots Development and Security
BENIN CITY, Nigeria — In response to the deadly attack on seven farming communities in Ovia South-West Local Government Area, the Edo State Government has provided 3,000 bags of 10kg rice and ₦20 million in relief materials to support victims and help rebuild the affected communities.
The attacks, which occurred on Friday, February 21, 2025, were allegedly carried out by suspected Ijaw militants. The violence led to the deaths of at least 22 people, while several homes and properties, worth millions of naira, were destroyed.
The affected communities — Marindoti, Gbelemontin Domiju, Kola Village, Taiye Camp, Eto Camp, Dipe, Bala Dele, and Thousand — are predominantly populated by farmers from various ethnic groups, including Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, and Benin.
In a statement delivered on behalf of the Governor, Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Secretary of the Edo State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Jerry Idahosa, presented the relief items. Idahosa reaffirmed the Governor’s commitment to fostering sustainable peace and development at the grassroots level.
“This is governance in its truest and most humane form,” Idahosa stated. “We are not just handing out food; we are reinforcing your strength and your right to a government that cares.”
The ₦20 million financial aid is intended to support the rebuilding of homes and critical infrastructure destroyed during the attack. Idahosa emphasized that the donation was not a mere token gesture, but a tangible demonstration of the government’s support for the recovery of the communities.
Further highlighting the collaborative effort between the State and Federal Governments, Idahosa acknowledged that the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had made grassroots engagement and inclusive recovery a priority.
Security Measures
Additionally, the Governor’s administration has pledged to establish a security post at the Maidoti/Gbelebu community, in partnership with security agencies, to ensure continued peace in the area.
“The donations reflect a synergy between State and Federal governments under the leadership of President Tinubu,” Idahosa said. “We are committed to supporting communities affected by violence and ensuring their recovery through direct interventions.”
Edo State’s timely intervention reaffirms its dedication to protecting its citizens and enhancing the safety and prosperity of its farming communities.
