Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpeholo has vowed to flush out criminal elements to ensure the safety of the people of the state.
Governor Okpebholo made the pledge at a security meeting with stakeholders which held behind closed doors at Iyamho, Etsako West local government area of the state.
LEADERSHIP gathered that the meeting had heads of security agencies, religious and traditional leaders in attendance where they brainstormed on ways to tackle the challenges of insecurity confronting Edo State.
Okpebholo assured at the meeting that criminal elements will not succeed in distabilising Edo State under his watch, vowing to deal with them decisively and make the state uncomfortable for their activities.
He said the security stakeholders’ meeting had become necessary to ensure that peace and security were maintained across the state, particularly in Edo North.
Okpebholo assured that Edo people should expect a better security situation, sayingall the deliberations will be properly utilised.
“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.
Lawmaker 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 Okpebholo-led administration will make the 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.
Oshiomhole who was a former governor of the state also disclosed that Governor Okpebholo has provided vehicles and motorcycles for the police and other security agencies.
“The Governor recognised 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,” Oshiomhole said.
Similarly, the Bishop of Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Rt. Rev. Gabriel Dunia, appreciated the stakeholders’ meeting and urged participants to collaborate to ensure peace in Edo State.
A traditional ruler from Edo North, HRH Mallam Ali Suleiman, said the security meeting has given stakeholders confidence, assuring that traditional rulers have resolved to collaborate with security agencies and stakeholders to ensure peace in the 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 at the neeting include the Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; the 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.
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