Crime

Security Overhaul: Gov Okpebholo Targets Cultism, Kidnapping in Edo

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on July 31st, 2025.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, said his administration will not relent on the anti-cultism, anti-kidnapping war, and other criminal activities in ensuring that the State is safe for all.

The Governor disclosed this after a closed door meeting with the commanders and leaders of the Special Security Squad on Wednesday evening in Government House, Benin City, on the outcome of the strategic importance of the interface.

Governor Okpebholo, his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Dannis Idahosa; the Secretary to Edo State government (SSG), Barr. Musa Ikhilor; and an Executive Member of Edo State Special Security Squad, Comrade Ameloemen Idemudia Noah; and other important personalities were all part of the meeting.

The Governor disclosed that the meeting was successful, as those in attendance were able to strategize on how to continue the fight against cultism and kidnaping in Edo State.

“We had a very useful meeting that concerns the fight against cultism and kidnaping. We want to see that Edo State is safe for all of us, and we are able to drive a strong economy. This is the reason for today’s meeting.”

Since the Inauguration of the Security Squad, calmness has returned to the State as several arrests have been made by the Squad in a series of raids carried out.

The team is made up of the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corp (NSCDC), hunters, vigilante groups, and repentant cultists, among other critical stakeholders in Edo State

The Squad has identified some hotspots, unexpectedly raided them, and has made significant arrests of suspects and leaders of cult groups and has restored relative peace to troubled parts of the State, especially in Benin City.

Signed:

Fred Itua,

The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State.

Thursday, 31 July, 2025.