Residents across Edo State have commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his security reforms, describing the 2024 Yuletide season as the safest in nearly a decade.
The accolades came when residents assessed the Governor’s first 60 days in office as contained in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Fred Itua and made available to journalists.
The residents highlighted the Governor’s firm stance against cultism and thuggery, which they credited with ending inter-cult wars that had claimed over 100 lives between September and early November 2024.
Speaking on the issue, a Benin City resident said, “Governor Okpebholo has shown strong leadership in tackling the security crisis. His decisive action has restored peace to areas that were previously overrun by cult-related violence.”
Another respondent emphasized the significance of these efforts, saying, “For the first time in years, we can walk freely without fear. The difference is clear, and we are grateful for his proactive measures.”
This year’s festive season was notably peaceful, with minimal reports of kidnapping and other crimes. Many attributed the improvements to the Governor’s leadership and ongoing road rehabilitation efforts that eased travel across the state.
An official of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) remarked: “The Yuletide season recorded fewer accidents compared to previous years. This is largely due to the governor’s quick intervention in repairing bad spots on our roads, which made travel safer for everyone.”
Recall that Edo State had been plagued by kidnappings and cult-related violence under the previous administration, with the Benin-Ekpoma Road becoming a hotspot for criminal activities.
Recalling the dire situation, a trader along the Benin-Ekpoma corridor said: “Before now, traveling on this road was a nightmare. You could be attacked or kidnapped at any time. But the repairs and improved security presence have made a huge difference.”
To address these challenges, Governor Okpebholo convened a meeting with heads of security agencies on November 19, 2024, just days after his inauguration. The meeting resulted in a directive to intensify the fight against cultism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities.
The Governor also prioritized fixing critical road networks, including the notorious Obadan Junction on the Benin-Ekpoma Road. The repairs have drastically reduced crime in these areas and allowed economic activities to gradually pick up.
Marketplaces have also benefited from the Governor’s reforms. The ban on market unions and thugs posing as revenue collectors has created a peaceful atmosphere for traders.
A market woman in Benin City expressed her relief, saying, “We can now do business without harassment or unnecessary fights caused by ticket collectors. The markets are peaceful and feel like a new beginning.”
The residents further called on Governor Okpebholo to sustain the momentum and extend his pragmatic approach to other sectors.
“We are impressed with what the governor has achieved in such a short time. He should continue to build on this foundation and make Edo State a model of progress and security,” a resident concluded.
By Ebriku John Friday
