The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has accused Governor Monday Okpebholo of failing to address the growing security crisis in the state.
The PDP specifically pointed to the recent killing of hunters in Uromi as evidence of the government’s failure to oversee the state’s vigilante unit.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Edo PDP Chairman Chris Osa Nehikhare criticized the suspension of the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, Friday Ibadin, as an acknowledgment of the state’s security failures. Nehikhare also called on Governor Okpebholo to either address the security issues or resign from his position, adding that the PDP would continue to stand up for the people of Edo State.
“The Edo State PDP is deeply alarmed by the rapidly deteriorating security situation in the state, which has now culminated in the gruesome killing of innocent travelers in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area,” the party’s statement read.
The PDP further expressed concern that the government’s classification of the perpetrators as an illegal vigilante group only highlighted the lack of a coherent security framework under Okpebholo’s administration. The party stated that the suspension of Ibadin was a clear sign of the government’s failure to ensure the security of the state.
“The February 5 mutiny by members of the Edo Security Corps was an early warning sign of deep-rooted inefficiencies, yet Senator Monday Okpebholo chose to ignore it. Now, Edo people are paying the price with their lives,” the statement continued.
The party emphasized the distressing fact that an unregistered vigilante group, operating without oversight, was allowed to carry weapons and engage in extrajudicial killings. This, the PDP argued, reflected the Okpebholo administration’s failure to properly regulate and coordinate security efforts in the state.
To address the worsening situation, the PDP called for the following measures:
A comprehensive audit and overhaul of the Edo State Security Corps to eliminate unregistered groups and ensure accountability.
The immediate arrest and prosecution of all those responsible for the Uromi killings, including their sponsors.
The deployment of federal security agencies to stabilize the situation in the state.
The implementation of a new security strategy, including a non-partisan security summit involving all stakeholders such as traditional rulers, community leaders, security agencies, and opposition parties.
“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,” the PDP concluded, reaffirming their commitment to advocating for the protection of all citizens and ensuring justice prevails.