Okpebholo reassures Edo people of his commitment to their safety

Governor Monday Okpebholo is appalled but not surprised by the shameless hypocrisy of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which has once again attempted to deceive the Edo people with empty rhetoric and baseless accusations. In their latest statement, the PDP pretends to care about security while conveniently ignoring the fact that their reckless mismanagement over the past eight years is the root cause of the security challenges facing the state today. 

If the PDP-led administration of former governor Godwin Obaseki had prioritized security and properly utilized the billions of naira collected as security votes, Edo would not be grappling with this situation. Instead, those funds were funneled into private pockets, enriching former governor Obaseki, his consultants, corporate allies, and party leaders, while the security architecture of the state collapsed under their watch. The so-called security initiatives they now claim credit for were nothing more than smokescreens for financial mismanagement and failed policies. 

It is laughable that the PDP, which spent eight years making excuses, now wants to question Governor Monday Okpebholo’s efforts after just 100 days in office. The truth is, in just three months, this administration has taken decisive action to combat insecurity in Edo State—actions that surpass anything the PDP did in eight years. These include: 

Procurement of over 60 brand-new Hilux operational vehicles equipped with state-of-the-art communication gadgets to enhance mobility for security agencies, compared to the rickey second-hand ineffective Sienna vehicles laughably procured by the sacked PDP-led givernment to combat crime; Deployment of over 300 bush-combing motorcycles to strengthen security operations in rural and hard-to-reach areas; Suppressing to almost non-existence secret cult clashes that were a hallmark of the last PDP-led administration; Depoliticizing, reorganization, and empowerment of the Edo State Security Network to boost community-policing security efforts; Renewed collaboration between security agencies for better coordination in tackling crime, and Material and financial support for security agencies to ensure they have the resources needed to protect lives and property. 

Governor Monday Okpebholo fully understands the concerns of Edo residents and assures them that securing their lives and property remains his top priority. His administration is committed to building a security framework that is proactive, well-equipped, and capable of dealing with evolving threats. Unlike the PDP, which only made empty promises, this government is taking real steps to ensure the safety of all Edo people, whether in urban centers or rural communities. 

To the good people of Edo State: Governor Okpebholo stands with you. He shares your concerns and is working tirelessly to restore security and order across the state. Criminals will find no haven in Edo under this administration. The days of insecurity being ignored or politicized for personal gain are over. 

While the government deeply mourns the loss of innocent citizens in Okpekpe and extends heartfelt condolences to their families, be assured that this administration is not distracted by the desperate antics of failed politicians. The focus remains on delivering a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Edo for all. 

Edo people rejected the PDP because they saw through their lies. Governor Okpebholo is here to serve, secure, and build. He will not rest until every Edo resident can live, work, and thrive without fear.

Bugie Okhuemoi
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Edo State Governor.