Edo Kidnap: Okpebholo vows to bring perpetrators to justice as police begin probe

The Edo State Government has pledged to ensure that those responsible for the abduction of a woman at a vegetable market in Benin on Sunday face justice. Patrick Ebojele, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, confirmed that the Edo State Police Command has initiated an investigation into the incident.

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The governor gave a clear directive, and the Police Command is acting on it. We want the family and members of the public to know that this matter is being treated with urgency. The perpetrators will be identified and brought to justice.

Ebojele stated that Governor Okpebholo issued a clear directive for security agencies to apprehend the perpetrators. Security operatives are actively working to track down those involved, and the matter is being treated with urgency. "The perpetrators will be identified and brought to justice," Ebojele assured the public and the victim's family.

In addition to the ongoing investigation, Ebojele cautioned against the sensationalization of security-related incidents on social media and online platforms. He noted that exaggerated reports can incite unnecessary panic and potentially hinder ongoing security operations. While acknowledging that insecurity remains a challenge in Nigeria and globally, Ebojele highlighted Governor Okpebholo's commitment to enhancing security since taking office.

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When Governor Okpebholo came into office, the security situation in Edo State was a major concern. Since then, he has invested heavily in personnel, equipment and intelligence infrastructure. The improvement is evident.

"Since then, he has invested heavily in personnel, equipment and intelligence infrastructure. The improvement is evident," Ebojele said, emphasizing the governor's efforts to bolster security personnel, equipment, and intelligence gathering. The government is also training forest guards from local communities to improve surveillance in rural areas, leveraging their local knowledge to protect farmlands and communities. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to complement conventional security agencies and ensure the safety of vulnerable rural areas.

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These are people who know the environment. They understand the forests, the pathways and the communities. That local knowledge is a major advantage in securing rural areas and protecting farmers who depend on these lands. The farmlands and forests will become safer soon.