From Tony Osauzo
The decisive action of Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo in galvanising security agencies to halt cult-related killings in the state has paid off, with normalcy returning to Benin City, the state capital.
Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua, who announced this in a statement yesterday, said, “Multiple reports now indicate that normalcy has returned to the ancient city as cult-related deaths have been brought under control.”
The statement further stated, “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 deaths are recorded as we approach the festive season.”
It recalled that the governor, on assuming office on November 12, 2024, inherited a terrible security situation in the state, as cult clashes leading to bloodbaths were ubiquitous.
“Governor 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.”
“Governor Okpebholo noted that his government would be firm in dealing with criminals and improving the security situation of the state to enable farming and other businesses to flourish again.”
“Matching words with actions, Governor Okpebholo, in his maiden security council meeting at the Government House, 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.”
“He thereafter urged security agencies to collaborate and ensure that they put a stop to the killings, especially in Benin City.”
“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,” the statement added.