Edo State chapter of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has acknowledged and commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his administration’s proactive approach to addressing security challenges in the state.
Gatekeepers News reports that this was done in a statement by Bob-Manuel Umoru, Publicity Secretary of PDP Edo State Caretaker Committee on Wednesday,
4th May 2025.
The party noted that recent initiatives have led to a noticeable reduction in incidents of kidnapping, cultism, banditry, and herdsmen attacks on communities.
PDP highlighted several key initiatives credited with improving safety across Edo State to include:
Legislative Measures: The enactment of the Cultism Prohibition Law and the Kidnapping Prohibition Amendment Law, 2025, which impose stringent penalties on offenders, including the death penalty for convicted kidnappers and the demolition of properties linked to such crimes.
Operational Enhancements: Procurement of over 60 new Hilux vehicles and 1,000 motorcycles to bolster the capabilities of security agencies, facilitating rapid response and improved surveillance across the state.
Community Engagement: Reorganization and empowerment of the Edo State Security Network to strengthen community policing efforts, ensuring that local insights contribute to effective security strategies.
These measures have already begun to yield positive results, with a visible decline in criminal activities and enhanced safety for residents across Edo. The administration’s focused effort to equip security operatives and enforce the rule of law reflects a marked shift from the previous administration.
Under the last government led by Governor Godwin Obaseki, the state witnessed the proliferation of firearms, emboldened cult groups parading in broad daylight sometimes under police escort and a general escalation of insecurity.
PDP pledged to maintain its role as a constructive opposition, promising to hold the government accountable with civility and a commitment to the people’s welfare.
It said, “We, as a responsible opposition party, acknowledge the tremendous improvement in the security architecture of Edo State. While we will continue to play our constitutional role in holding the government accountable, we commit to doing so with civility, maturity, and genuine concern for the well-being of our people not through bitterness or sabotage.”
PDP urged Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration to remain focused and consistent in its fight against insecurity, emphasizing that while recent achievements are commendable, addressing security challenges requires sustained effort and vigilance.
The party reaffirmed its desire for a peaceful, prosperous Edo State and vowed to continue advocating for governance that delivers tangible benefits to every household in the state.
It said, “It remains our prayer that Edo people get the best from every administration saddled with the responsibility of governance. We desire a prosperous society and a stable economy, and we will not shy away from constructively engaging the government to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach every household in our beloved state.”
