Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has vowed to intensify the ongoing fight against cultism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities in the state.
Naijaonpoint reports that Governor Okpebholo gave the assurance on Wednesday evening after a high-level security meeting with commanders and leaders of the Special Security Squad at the Government House in Benin City.
Speaking to journalists after the closed-door session, the Governor described the meeting as productive and critical to sustaining peace across the state.
He stressed that his administration will stop at nothing to ensure the safety of all residents.
“We had a very useful meeting that concerns the fight against cultism and kidnapping. We want to see that Edo State is safe for all of us and that we are able to drive a strong economy. This is the reason for today’s meeting,” Okpebholo said in a statement signed and released on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua.
The Governor was joined at the strategic session by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa; Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Musa Ikhilor; an executive member of the Special Security Squad, Comrade Ameloemen Idemudia Noah, and other senior government officials.
Since its inauguration, the Edo Special Security Squad has led several operations resulting in arrests of suspected cultists and kidnappers.
The team, which comprises personnel from the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), hunters, vigilante groups, and even repentant cultists, has been instrumental in restoring calm in several volatile communities.
Security officials disclosed that key hotspots have been identified and raided, with several gang leaders and members of cult groups apprehended.
Areas in Benin City, previously troubled by cult-related clashes, have witnessed relative peace since the commencement of the coordinated operations.
The formation of the Special Security Squad reflects the state government’s resolve to adopt a multi-agency approach to crime fighting, bringing together conventional and non-conventional actors under one structure.
With the continued support of local stakeholders, the government says it is optimistic that the ongoing security drive will further reduce incidents of violence and restore investor confidence in the state
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