Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has launched a statewide crackdown on crime by initiating the demolition of properties linked to kidnapping, cultism, and other violent criminal activities.
The operation began in Benin City with the demolition of a residential duplex allegedly used for kidnapping and organ harvesting. According to the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor, Mr. Fred Itua, the crackdown is part of a broader effort to dismantle the infrastructure supporting violent crime in the state.
Mr. Itua, who addressed journalists at the demolition site, revealed that Eterno Hotel and an adjoining event centre had also been sealed off. He said these facilities were being used as meeting points by cult groups before launching attacks that have led to multiple deaths.
“This is not a political witch-hunt,” Itua clarified. “These buildings were used for acts that clearly violate the laws of Edo State. His Excellency has made it clear: properties linked to criminal activities will be brought down.”
The duplex, located in a residential area of Benin, was reportedly the site where a young woman was murdered and dismembered for organ harvesting. Authorities have since arrested the suspect in Lagos, and efforts are underway to extradite him to Edo State for prosecution.
Mr. Itua added that the suspect’s father, Mr. Martins Oghenewore, owns the demolished property and has been cooperating with police investigations.
“The suspect’s father has provided useful information. The demolition is in accordance with laws enacted by the current administration targeting properties used for crime,” he said.
In an emotional account, Mr. Oghenewore shared the distressing moment he discovered his son’s involvement in the crime.
“On the 23rd, my wife called to say our son had killed a woman in the house. I immediately went to the police and reported it. They came with me and removed the body,” he said.
“I’ve spent years trying to reform him — rehab, psychiatric help, even traditional healing. Nothing worked. Now he has destroyed everything I worked for.”
The suspect, aged 28, had long been described as troubled, exhibiting erratic behavior and substance abuse. Authorities confirmed that human body parts were recovered from him upon his arrest.
Governor Okpebholo has vowed that more buildings used for criminal activities will be targeted, stressing that the state will not tolerate the use of private or commercial properties to endanger lives.
“This is just the beginning,” said Mr. Itua. “The administration is committed to reclaiming the state from criminal elements.”
The government says investigations are ongoing as it intensifies its fight against kidnapping, cultism, and related crimes in Edo.
