Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo’s decisive action in galvanising security agencies to halt cult-related killings in Edo State, have paid off, as normalcy has now returned to Benin City, the state capital.
The governor had on assumption of office on November 12, 2024, inherited a terrible security situation in the state, as cult clashes leading to bloodbaths were ubiquitous .
Gov. Okpebholo, in his inaugural speech had promised that his administration would deal with kidnapping and other violent crimes, including cult-related killings, which had for long tainted the image of the state and affected businesses.
The governor noted that his government would be firm in dealing with criminals and improve the security situation in the state to enable farming and other businesses flourish again.
Matching words with action, Gov. Okpebholo in his maiden security council meeting at the Government House, Benin, said the issue of cultism dominated the discussions, stressing that his administration will not fold its arms, while cult-related killings go on in the state.
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He thereafter, urged security agencies to collaborate and ensure that they put a stop to the killings, especially in Benin City.
“We charged them to smoke criminals out of the state wherever they are hiding and ensure that the state is safe for all,” he had said.
The security chiefs who pledged their loyalty to the state immediately swung into action to ensure the orders of the governor were strictly obeyed, making the city safe for Edo citizens.
Multiple reports now indicate that normalcy has returned to the ancient city as cult related death has been brought under control, a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua stated.
The security agencies in the state had given a stern warning to criminals and cultists who were bent on causing palpable fears and tensions.
“Failure to stop the killings would result in massive arrests and swift prosecution as the peace of the state will not be traded by the Okpebholo-led administration.
“The governor is committed to ensuring that people go about their routine business activities as security agencies are on red alert patrolling strategic locations across the state to ensure no death is recorded as we approach the festive season,” the statement added.