BENIN: Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has declared that his administration will intensify efforts to combat cultism, kidnapping and other criminal activities to ensure the state is safe for all residents.
The governor made the announcement after a closed-door meeting with commanders of the state’s Special Security Squad at Government House in Benin City.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Fred Itua in a statement on Thursday in Benin, the state capital, said the meeting, which included the Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa and Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Musa Ikhilor, focused on strategic approaches to ongoing security challenges.
Governor Okpebholo described the meeting as productive.
“We had a very useful meeting that concerned the fight against cultism and kidnapping. We want to see that Edo State is safe for all of us, and we are able to drive a strong economy. This is the reason for today’s meeting,” he stated.
The Special Security Squad, which comprises of personnel from the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps NSCDC, hunters, vigilance groups and even repentant cultists, has been actively working to restore peace.
Since its inauguration, the squad has carried out a series of raids on identified hotspots, leading to several significant arrests of cult group members and leaders.
These operations have reportedly brought a renewed sense of calm to previously troubled areas, particularly within Benin City.
The governor’s renewed commitment signals an ongoing push to build on these successes and create a secure environment conducive to economic growth.
