The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has blamed Governor Monday Okpebholo for the “rapidly deteriorating security situation” in the state, which the party linked to the recent killing of innocent travelers in Uromi.
Some travelers accused of kidnapping were gruesomely murdered by a mob in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of the state on Thursday which has attracted public condemnation.
Following the incident, Governor Okpebholo announced the suspension of all illegal vigilante groups operating under whatever guise in the state. He also suspended the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.).
But in a statement signed by the Edo State PDP Caretaker Committee Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, on Sunday, the opposition party faulted the governor’s actions.
“The recent government classification of the perpetrators as an illegal vigilante group only further exposes the absence of a coherent security framework under the current administration and a continuation of the blame game this government has come to master.
“The suspension of the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), is a clear admission by the government that the security architecture of the state has failed.
“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.
“It is particularly distressing that a vigilante group, operating without any oversight or proper registration, was allowed to take up arms and engage in extra-judicial killings. This is an indictment of the Okpebholo administration’s failure to properly regulate, train, and coordinate security efforts in the state,” the PDP said.
The PDP demanded some urgent measures to restore security and prevent further loss of lives in Edo State.
The demands include, “Comprehensive Audit and Overhaul of the Edo State Security Corps: The security structure must be reviewed to eliminate unregistered groups and ensure accountability in operations.
“Immediate Arrest and Prosecution of All Perpetrators: The government must ensure that all those responsible for the Uromi killings, including their sponsors, face the full weight of the law.
“Deployment of Federal Security Agencies: Given the state government’s apparent inability to maintain law and order, federal intervention is now necessary to stabilize the situation.
“Implementation of a New Security Strategy: The PDP calls for a non-partisan security summit involving all stakeholders—traditional rulers, community leaders, security agencies, and opposition parties—to map out an effective security blueprint for the state.
“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 opposition party noted that Edo State cannot continue on this perilous path, adding that it remains committed to advocating for the protection of all citizens and ensuring that justice prevails.
