From Tony Osauzo, Benin
The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party and the State Government, yesterday, engaged in a game of blame over last week Thursday killing of travellers by vigilante members at Uromi, headquarters of Esan South East Local Government Area of the state.
The PDP fired the first salvo when it said in a statement that it is deeply alarmed by the rapidly deteriorating security situation in the state, which has now culminated in the gruesome killings of innocent travelers in Uromi, adding that the recent government classification of the perpetrators as an illegal vigilante group only further exposes the absence of a coherent security framework under the current administration and a continuation of the blame game this government has come to master.
The statement signed by the party’s Caretaker Committee Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, said suspension of the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), was a clear admission by the government that the security architecture of the state has failed, pointing out that the February 5 mutiny by members of the Edo Security Corps was an early warning sign of deep-rooted inefficiencies, the governor chose to ignore it with Edo people now paying the price with their lives.
“It is particularly distressing that a vigilante group, operating without any oversight or proper registration, was allowed to take up arms and engage in extra-judicial killings. This is an indictment of the Okpebholo administration’s failure to properly regulate, train, and coordinate security efforts in the state”, the PDP said.
It therefore demanded for the comprehensive audit and overhaul of the Edo State Security Corps and review of the security structure to eliminate unregistered groups and ensure accountability in operations.
“Immediate arrest and prosecution of all perpetrators by government to ensure that all those responsible for the Uromi killings, including their sponsors, face the full weight of the law.
“Deployment of Federal Security agencies to stabilize the situation in the State and implementation of a new Security Strategy- a non-partisan security summit involving all stakeholders, traditional rulers, community leaders, security agencies, and opposition parties to map out an effective security blueprint for the state”.
The statement said “The safety of Edo people cannot be sacrificed at the altar of incompetence. Senator Okpebholo must rise to the occasion and take decisive actions, or accept that his administration has failed and step aside for those who can secure the lives and properties of our people”.
But the Edo State Government in its reaction, accused the PDP of making baseless allegations regarding the security situation in the State, saying that “While we acknowledge the unfortunate incident in Uromi, it is disappointing that the PDP has chosen to exploit a tragic event for political mileage rather than contribute constructively to ongoing efforts to enhance security.
The Government in a statement signed by Chief Press Secretary to the State Governor, Fred Itua said “The administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo has demonstrated an unyielding commitment to addressing security challenges head-on. The swift classification of the perpetrators as an illegal vigilante group and the subsequent suspension of the Edo State Security Corps Commander, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), is a clear indication that this government does not condone lawlessness or impunity. Unlike previous administrations that overlooked security failings, this government takes decisive actions.
“Contrary to the PDP’s misleading assertions, the Okpebholo administration has consistently prioritized security through robust collaboration with security agencies, reinforcement of community policing structures, and the establishment of a multi-layered security approach to safeguard lives and property across the state.
“The unfortunate February 5 protest by members of the Edo Security Corps was not ignored, as the PDP falsely claims. On the contrary, the government has taken proactive measures to review the operational framework of the Corps, ensuring that such lapses do not re-occur. Unlike the PDP’s tenure, where security concerns were often swept under the carpet, the present administration has acted transparently and responsibly.
“The Edo State Government has already commenced a full-scale investigation into the Uromi incident, with the arrest and prosecution of those responsible. This government believes in the rule of law and will ensure that every individual or group found culpable faces justice.
“Security is a collective responsibility, and it is unfortunate that the PDP continues to play politics with the lives of Edo people rather than supporting genuine efforts to enhance security”.
The statement stressed that the Monday Okpebholo administration remains open to constructive dialogue and collaboration with stakeholders, including opposition parties, to develop sustainable security strategies but pointed out that fear-mongering and baseless accusations will not deter the government from its commitment to keeping Edo safe.
“The call for federal intervention by the PDP is not only unnecessary but also an admission of their lack of faith in the State’s capabilities. Under Governor Okpebholo’s leadership, Edo State remains secure and capable of handling its internal security matters without undue political interference.
“Governor Monday Okpebholo urges all Edo citizens to remain vigilant and support ongoing security efforts. The government will not relent in its determination to provide a safe and secure environment for all.
Edo’s security is a priority, and no amount of political manipulation will derail this administration’s commitment to that goal”, the statement added.