Edo State Governor Offers Amnesty to Cultists and Illegal Arms Bearers, Unveils Plans for New City Development
The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced an amnesty programme for cultists and individuals in possession of illegal arms, as part of broader efforts to tackle insecurity and foster sustainable development in the state.
The governor made this known during a high-level meeting with leaders of Obagie, Oke-Oroma, and Amagba communities in Benin City. The meeting was convened to address pressing issues related to land disputes and growing insecurity in the area.
According to a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the amnesty programme is aimed at reducing the incidence of violent crimes, including cult-related violence and kidnapping.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that the amnesty initiative is not just about disarming cultists and criminals, but also about providing them with a pathway to reintegration into society.
He revealed that a technical committee would soon be constituted to manage the process of restitution for cult members and criminally-inclined youths. A major component of this initiative, he said, would include skills acquisition and empowerment programmes designed to make the beneficiaries self-reliant and productive members of society.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and order in troubled communities, the governor assured the visiting leaders that his government would do everything possible to bring lasting peace to Obagie, Oke-Oroma, and Amagba, among others. This peace-building effort is particularly crucial as the Edo State Government prepares for the development of a new city in the affected areas.
Governor Okpebholo also stated that his administration is open to listening to those whose properties were affected by demolitions carried out by the previous government. He urged affected residents to present their documents to the committee on land resolution for verification and possible restitution.
As part of the new city project, the governor provided updates on the development of LOT ‘A’. He stated that officials of the government would ensure the protection of traditional and cultural sites during the development process. For property owners in LOT ‘B’ and other parts of the proposed city, he encouraged them to present their land documents to the committee once the process begins.
Governor Okpebholo also stressed the importance of formal land documentation. He advised property owners to survey their lands and register them with the Edo Geographical Information System (EdoGIS), which would enable them to obtain official land titles and regularize their ownership. “Survey your lands and register them with EdoGIS, so that you can collect the titles,” he urged.
Leaders of the Obagie, Oke-Oroma, and Amagba communities expressed strong support for the governor’s initiatives. Speaking on behalf of their communities, Pa Michael Omoruyi (Obagie), Pa Abel Emokpae (Oke-Oroma), and Ebo Amagba (Amagba) praised Governor Okpebholo for engaging directly with them. They noted that it was the first time the Edo State Government had reached out to them since 2017, when their lands were initially acquired.
The community leaders commended the formation of the land resolution committee and pledged full cooperation with the government, particularly in the development of LOT ‘A’ and the governor’s broader security agenda.
It will be recalled that a few weeks ago, Governor Okpebholo inaugurated a six-member committee on land resolution. The committee is chaired by Dr. Tony Ikpasaja, with Dr. Abdulwasiu Oyakhire serving as Secretary.
The committee is tasked with resolving land disputes, coordinating land documentation efforts, and ensuring that affected communities are properly integrated into the new city project.