Edo Senator Ikpea Backs Okpebholo’s Special Court Plan To Tackle Kidnapping, Cultism

Senator Joseph Ikpea, representing Edo Central Senatorial District, has endorsed the plan by Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to establish a special court for the speedy trial of suspected kidnappers and cultists, describing the move as a decisive step toward addressing insecurity in the state.

In a statement issued on Friday from his country home in Ewatto, Esan South-East Local Government Area, Ikpea commended the governor’s ongoing support for security agencies and his commitment to restoring safety across Edo State.

The senator particularly praised the recent crackdown on kidnapping syndicates, which led to the rescue of a woman abducted at the Vegetable Market in Benin City and the arrest of one of the suspected perpetrators.

The Edo State Police Command had earlier paraded several suspected kidnappers, including an alleged member of the gang linked to the market abduction. During the parade, Governor Okpebholo announced plans to facilitate the establishment of a special court aimed at fast-tracking the prosecution of kidnapping and cult-related cases.

The governor also pledged to sign death warrants of convicted kidnappers in accordance with existing laws and commended security operatives for their swift response, announcing a N10 million reward for officers involved in the rescue operation.

Reacting to these developments, Ikpea described the governor’s directive to security agencies as timely and effective.

“Governor Okpebholo’s prompt directive to the Edo police to apprehend those responsible for the Vegetable Market kidnapping, and the swift response that led to the rescue of the victim and arrest of a suspect, is highly commendable,” he said.

He added that the governor’s actions sent a strong message to criminal elements while reassuring residents of the government’s commitment to their safety.

“The governor’s prompt action signals clearly that criminal elements have no safe haven in Edo State and serves as a confidence booster for citizens,” Ikpea stated.The lawmaker also reaffirmed his readiness to collaborate with the state government and other stakeholders to enhance security across the state.

“As the senator representing Edo Central, I remain committed to working with the state government and my colleagues across the senatorial districts to ensure the safety of our people,” he said.

Ikpea further urged residents to support security efforts by providing useful information to law enforcement agencies, stressing that community participation is vital in combating crime.

“When everyone is involved in the business of security, criminal elements will either repent or relocate because they will realise that Edo State is no longer a safe haven for criminals,” he said.