Okpekpe: Edo Government Sympathizes with Families of Victims Killed by Suspected Herdsmen
…Warns PDP Against Instigating Insecurity in the State
The Edo State Government has expressed deep sympathy to the families of two persons killed by suspected herdsmen in Okpekpe Community, Etsako East Local Government Area. The government also issued a stern warning to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to desist from actions that could instigate insecurity in the state.
In a statement issued in Benin City, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, criticized the PDP for its failure to address insecurity during its eight-year administration in the state.
Government’s Commitment to Security
According to the Commissioner, Governor Monday Okpebholo is fully committed to ensuring the security of lives and property in Edo State. He reiterated that the government would not tolerate any form of violence, criminality, kidnapping, cultism, or murder.
“The PDP should refrain from inciting insecurity in the state, as evidence increasingly suggests their involvement in these activities. Anyone found guilty of such actions will face the full weight of the law,” he warned.
Hon. Ohonbamu highlighted the measures taken by Governor Okpebholo to combat insecurity, including the procurement of brand-new motorcycles for security operations in remote communities. He also referenced the signing of the Edo State Secret Cult and Similar Activities Prohibition Bill 2025, which enforces a 21-year jail term for cultists and their sponsors.
“The PDP should not forget that a law prohibiting cultism and related activities is in place. Anyone implicated in such activities will be arrested and prosecuted, with no exceptions,” he added.
PDP’s Past Failures on Security
The Commissioner further argued that the current unrest in Edo State is a lingering effect of unfulfilled promises made by the previous PDP-led administration.
“The PDP should be ashamed of its failure to account for security votes over eight years. This mismanagement led to the rise in insecurity and cult-related crises across the state,” he stated.
He emphasized that, within just 100 days in office, Governor Okpebholo had taken decisive steps to address security concerns. These measures include:
- The purchase of new security vehicles and motorcycles.
- Enhanced mobilization of security agencies across the three senatorial districts.
- Improved security infrastructure and operational support for law enforcement.
“Unlike the previous administration, Governor Okpebholo has backed his words with action. Security agencies now have the necessary equipment to safeguard the lives and property of Edo people,” Hon. Ohonbamu noted.
Herdsmen Crisis and Open Grazing Ban
Addressing the persistent herders-farmers conflict, the Commissioner recalled that this crisis has been ongoing for years. He reaffirmed the state government’s stance against open grazing, stating that the current administration is determined to resolve the issue just as it has made significant progress in tackling cultism.
Call for Calm and Government’s Assurance
While expressing condolences to the bereaved families on behalf of the state government, Hon. Ohonbamu assured residents that security agencies, in collaboration with the Coordinator of Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd), are actively investigating the incident. He urged the community to remain calm as the government works toward ensuring justice and lasting security.
