Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has condemned the recent surge in violence across the state, which has resulted in the loss of 24 lives.
The governor vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety and security of all Edo State residents.
The first incident occurred in the agrarian community of Gbelemotin in Ovia South-West Local Government Area, where cocoa farmers clashed with alleged produce thieves. The violence began on Thursday night and escalated on Friday morning, resulting in 22 deaths, contrary to the initial report of seven deaths by the Edo State Police Command.
In a separate incident, two residents of Okpekpe community in Etsako East Local Government Area, Batemue Philip Ebo and Christopher Bello, were killed on Monday by suspected herders.
Governor Okpebholo has declared a zero-tolerance policy for violence and lawlessness in the state. He has ordered the deployment of additional security personnel to the affected areas and promised support for the affected communities.
The state government has also vowed to work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible for the attacks are brought to justice. Governor Okpebholo urged everyone to remain calm and go about their normal business, assuring that the situation is being brought under control.
In a statement, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua, denounced the killings and reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
The recent attacks have sparked concerns about the rising insecurity in the state. Governor Okpebholo has ordered security agencies to make the state unsafe for criminals. He has also declared war on cultism in the state, vowing to make the state safe for all residents ².