From Ebohon Joan
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has alleged that some residents of the state are travelling to other parts of Nigeria to recruit criminals who are later brought into Edo to carry out kidnappings, armed robbery and other violent crimes.
The governor made the claim during the 2026 Ministers’ Conference organised by the Edo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Benin City, where security challenges and other issues affecting the state were discussed.
Okpebholo also raised concerns over what he described as false and exaggerated reports of insecurity circulating on social media, saying such reports were creating unnecessary panic and sometimes being used to portray his administration negatively.
Speaking on a recent incident reported along Sapele Road, the governor said he immediately directed security agencies to respond after receiving the information, but investigations later showed that the report was false.
He, however, acknowledged that insecurity remains a genuine concern, adding that false alarms have become another challenge in addressing security issues.
“Some reports on insecurity are just to bring this government down and give this government a bad name. But it is not that there is no insecurity; the false alarms are another issue in this country,” he said.
The governor also warned residents against interfering when suspected criminals are arrested, saying those found involved in criminal activities should face the consequences.
He further stated that volunteers have been deployed to forests across Edo State as part of efforts to prevent criminal elements from establishing hideouts in the state.
Security agencies are expected to continue investigations and operations aimed at tackling crime and improving safety across Edo State.
