Edo State House of Assembly has commended the State Migration Agency for its efforts at raiding Ihama Road and the entire Government Reservation Area (GRA) of illicit drug activities and prostitution.
The lawmakers described the cleanup as a significant step towards restoring order and decency in the area, ensuring that the serenity of the environment remains intact.
Hon. Kaycee Osamwonyi, the member representing Uhunmwode Constituency, gave the commendation during plenary on Monday in Benin.
Hon Osamwonyi noted that the agency’s proactive efforts have significantly reduced crime in the area, making it a safer and more respectable place for residents and businesses.
He urged the agency to sustain its enforcement measures towards making Edo State a model of law and order, free from illicit activities that have, in recent times, tarnished its image.
The lawmaker, however, urged residents and stakeholders residing along Ihama road and environs to cooperate with the agency towards sustaining the trend.
In his Summation, Speaker of the House, Rt Hon Blessing Sheriff Agbebaku, stressed that Ihama Road, being home to the legislative quarters, must remain a secure and dignified location.
Rt Hon Agbebaku stated that criminal activities in the area posed a major embarrassment to the lawmakers and, as such must not continue, as it undermines the integrity of the environment.
“I also want to commend the State Migration Agency for the good job they are doing on that road. The illicit activities going on there had become an embarrassing situation”
“If you dared to stop on that road, someone would suddenly approach your vehicle, knocking on your windshield and hawking drugs as if everyone takes drugs”
“Since last week, I have observed that the personnel of the Migration Agency have taken over that area, and it is now calm and peaceful,” he said.
The Speaker urged the agency to remain vigilant and ensure that the enforcement measures continue to prevent a resurgence of illegal activities.
He further called on other security agencies to complement the efforts of the migration agency by intensifying patrols within the area.
Rt Hon Agbebaku stressed that collaborative efforts among government agencies and community leaders would be essential in keeping Edo safe, clean, and free from illicit drug activities and prostitution.
The House thereafter adjourned the sitting to Monday 10th of March after an adjournment motion moved by the member representing Uhunmwonde constituency, Hon Kaycee Osamwonyi, and seconded by the member representing Oredo East Constituency, Hon Uyi Omonsigho.
