In an apparent move to make Edo state safer following activities of criminal elements in the state, Governor Monday Okpeholo summoned a security meeting among stakeholders where he vowed to flush out criminal from the state.
The security meeting which held behind closed doors took place at Iyamho, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo state had in attendance heads of security agencies, religious and traditional leaders brainstormed on ways to tackle the challenges of insecurity in the state.
Okpebholo, said under his watch, criminal elements will not succeed in distabilizing Edo State. He vowed to deal with them decisively and make the State inhabitable for their activities.
He said the security stakeholders’ meeting had become necessary to ensure peace and security are maintained across the State, particularly in Edo North adding that Edo people should expect a better security situation in the State, as all the deliberations will be properly utilized.
“We came here for a peaceful discussion regarding security, and all our leaders are here, both traditional and religious leaders. The closed door meeting was successful as we had a good deliberation, and discussions were fruitful. We had a perfect discussion. Let us watch it from here. Things will be perfect in our land,” he stated.
Senator representing Edo North senatorial district, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, commended the Governor for his approach in handling security issues in the State.
He appreciated him for the security meeting and assured Edo people that the Governor Okpebholo-led administration will make Edo State safe for all to live and do business.
“Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has come to Edo North to discuss with the people what he has been doing and what he will do in terms of security of lives and property in Edo State.
“The meeting lasted for three hours, and it enabled the Governor to listen to comments from stakeholders and all those present. The Governor gave us the assurance that he will continue to ensure Edo is safe for us all,” he said.
Comrade Oshiomhole said Governor Okpebholo has provided vehicles and motor bikes for the police and other security agencies.
“The Governor recognized that the local people have their own role to play. We have discussed how the community will work with security agencies and forward any information they have to the Governor through available channels.
Bishop of Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Bishop Gabriel Dunia, appreciated all who came for the stakeholders’ meeting and urged them to collaborate to ensure peace in Edo State.
A traditional ruler from Edo North, His Royal Highness (HRH), Mallam Ali Suleiman, said the security meeting has given stakeholders confidence, while traditional rulers have resolved to collaborate with security agencies and stakeholders to ensure peace in Edo State.
“Today, we are experiencing a landmark event in response to security issues agitating our minds. The Governor came here by himself, not delegating anyone to handle the meeting.
“We have been very worried about the development. The Governor came here himself and also the Minister for Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh and this has given us confidence and we the traditional rulers have resolved to work with security agencies and all stakeholders to ensure the State is safe for us all.”
Other personalities in attendance include, the Speaker Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA), Rt. Hon Blessing Agbebaku; former governor of Edo State and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole; Minister for Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh; former deputy governors of Edo State, Peter Obadan and Philip Shaibu.
Others were the former Chief of Staff to the President, Chief Mike Ogiadomeh; former Minister for State Budget, Clem Agba; traditional and religious leaders, security chiefs, and other stakeholders in the security sector.
