The Edo State Government has assured residents that forests and farmlands across the state will become safer following the recruitment and ongoing training of forest guards drawn from local communities and indigenous populations in various local government areas.
Key Highlights:
Speaking during AS E DE HOT, a pidgin English programme on OJ FM Radio, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, said the initiative was designed to strengthen rural security by leveraging the recruits’ familiarity with their environments.
“These are people who know the terrain. They understand the forests, footpaths and surrounding communities, and that local knowledge will greatly enhance efforts to protect farmers and secure rural areas,” Ebojele said.
According to him, the forest guard programme forms part of Governor Okpebholo’s broader security strategy aimed at complementing the work of conventional security agencies and improving surveillance in communities that have been vulnerable to criminal activities.
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Ebojele also addressed the recent abduction of a woman at the Vegetable Market in Benin City, stating that the Edo State Police Command began investigations immediately after the governor directed security agencies to ensure those responsible were arrested.
“The Governor gave a clear directive, and the police are acting on it. We want the family and the public to know that this matter is receiving urgent attention. Those behind the crime will be identified and brought to justice,” he said.
The governor’s spokesperson cautioned social media users and online platforms against sensationalising security incidents, noting that exaggerated reports could create unnecessary panic and potentially undermine ongoing security operations.
While acknowledging that insecurity remains a challenge in Nigeria and other parts of the world, Ebojele maintained that the Okpebholo administration has made significant investments in security personnel, equipment and intelligence gathering since taking office.
“When Governor Okpebholo assumed office, security was a major concern in Edo State. Since then, the government has invested heavily in personnel, equipment and intelligence infrastructure. There has been noticeable improvement, and we will continue working until our people are fully protected,” he said.
He urged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities to security agencies and cooperate with ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security across the state.
