We’re Winning War Against Cultism, Kidnapping – Okpebholo Declares

Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to confronting and defeating the twin scourges of cultism and kidnapping, which have plagued the state for a long time.

Speaking at a thanksgiving service held at the Government House Chapel to mark his 55th birthday, the governor declared that his government is winning the war against the vices.

Represented at the thanksgiving service by his chief press secretary, Mr Fred Itua, the governor recalled that just 48 hours after his inauguration in November 2024, he was confronted with the grim reality of cult-related violence that claimed the lives of over 20 young people in the state while he was away on an official assignment in Akure, Ondo State.

“News of that tragedy reached me in Ondo barely two days after I assumed office. Right there, I vowed to fight cultism, kidnapping and other criminal activities to a standstill. Nine months on, by God’s grace and with the support of Edo people, we are winning that war,” he declared.

Okpebholo stressed that his administration came at a time of turbulence and uncertainty in the state but has since provided stability, restoring confidence among the citizenry.

“This is a government that makes promises and keeps them. Whether it is security, roads, schools or healthcare, we are delivering for the people of Edo State,” he added.

The thanksgiving service drew government functionaries, advisers, religious leaders and associates, who used the occasion to extol the governor’s leadership and developmental strides.

Special adviser to the governor on Electronic Media, Mr Paul Ezenwa, congratulated the governor on his birthday and underscored the significance of his leadership style.

“Many doubted him before he assumed office, but for those of us who believed in him, he has not disappointed. Edo people should continue to support him with prayers as he drives the state forward,” Ezenwa said.

Similarly, the special adviser on Health, Dr Andrew Iyamu, lauded the governor for demonstrating wisdom in appointing credible men and women to key positions. He noted that despite not having any personal connection to the governor, he was appointed strictly on merit, reflecting Okpebholo’s inclusive and performance-driven leadership.