Okpebholo to criminals: Edo not for ransom, no hiding place

 

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has vowed that his administration will not allow criminals or their sponsors to hold the state to ransom, declaring that perpetrators of kidnapping, cultism and other violent crimes will be hunted down and prosecuted.

The governor gave the assurance amid growing concerns over insecurity across parts of the state, insisting that the protection of lives and property remains a top priority of his government.

In a statement shared on the Edo State Government’s official Facebook page on Sunday, Okpebholo said his administration would deal decisively with criminal elements threatening public peace.

“This administration will not allow criminals or their sponsors to take Edo State hostage. Anyone involved in kidnapping, cultism or any form of criminality will be tracked down and brought to justice. There will be no hiding place for perpetrators,” he said.

The governor disclosed that the state government has invested heavily in modern security equipment, strengthened intelligence gathering and deepened collaboration among security agencies to confront criminal activities.

According to him, the fight against kidnapping and related crimes is being pursued “seriously and strategically,” with security operations already ongoing across the state.

Okpebholo noted that some aspects of the security architecture could not be disclosed publicly due to their sensitive nature.

“Security is not something you discuss openly all the time. Premature disclosures can undermine operations,” he said.

While reaffirming his administration’s respect for citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful protest, the governor warned against attempts by individuals or groups to exploit public sentiment to destabilise the state.

He assured residents that the government remains firmly in control of the security situation and urged them to continue their lawful activities without fear.

The governor also appealed to citizens to support security agencies by providing timely and useful information, cautioning against harbouring or shielding criminals within communities.