Security Stands Tall As The Heartbeat Of Governor Okpebholo’s Vision For Edo

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From Patrick Akhere Ebojele

Security is no longer a slogan in Edo State of today; it has become the backbone of governance since Governor Monday Okpebholo assumed office.

At a time when public anxiety is high and emotions are understandably raw following recent security incidents, it is important to pause, look beyond the noise, and examine the facts, the actions, and the direction Edo State is heading under his leadership. An insider assessment shows that security remains the central pillar of Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE agenda, not just in words, but in clear policy choices, massive investments, and sustained operations across the state.

From the very start of his administration, Governor Okpebholo made it clear that no meaningful development can happen in an unsafe environment. Roads, schools, hospitals, businesses and even community life collapse when fear takes over. That understanding shaped the government’s priorities, especially as reflected in the state’s budgets.

“…security remains the central pillar of Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE agenda, not just in words, but in clear policy choices, massive investments, and sustained operations across the state”.

For example, in the 2025 budget and even more boldly in the 2026 estimates, security received one of the strongest levels of attention, with billions committed to patrol vehicles, motorcycles, modern equipment, recruitment of trained personnel, intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration.

To the discerning, these are not cosmetic gestures; they are deliberate investments aimed at reclaiming forests, highways and communities from criminal elements.
The strengthening of the Edo State Security Corps, the reactivation and regulation of vigilante structures, and the expansion of Operation Rescue are part of a wider deliberate, concerted strategy to take security closer to the people. Before the last yuletide season, coordinated bush-combing operations were carried out across Auchi, Agenebode, Okpella, Fugar and parts of Owan. These operations led to the discovery and destruction of kidnappers’ hideouts, multiple arrests, prosecutions, and in some cases, armed confrontations that neutralised dangerous criminals. The result was a remarkably peaceful festive period, one of the calmest Edo State has witnessed in years. That outcome did not happen by chance.

The tragic abduction and killing of Dr. Abu Momoh Tahir in Auchi was a painful setback, and the government did not shy away from acknowledging the gravity of that loss. The incident is unfortunate and deeply regrettable, not only because a precious life was lost, but because it came at a time when sustained efforts had significantly reduced kidnapping incidents across the state. The fact remains however, that isolated criminal acts, no matter how heartbreaking, do not erase the progress being made nor do they define the overall security architecture of our state. Criminality thrives on opportunism, and the fight against it is rarely linear. The real measure of leadership lies in response, resolve and consistency, and on that score, the Okpebholo administration has remained firm.

Governor Okpebholo has repeatedly assured Edo people that his government will not allow criminals or their sponsors to take the state hostage. His message has been clear and consistent: there will be no hiding place for kidnappers, cultists or anyone threatening public peace and safety.

“For example, in the 2025 budget and even more boldly in the 2026 estimates, security received one of the strongest levels of attention, with billions committed to patrol vehicles …”

Security operations are ongoing, intelligence-led and strategic, even if not every detail can be discussed publicly. Security, by its nature, demands discretion, coordination and patience. Loud debates and premature disclosures may satisfy public curiosity, but they can also compromise operations and endanger lives.

This is why the government’s appeal for calm and restraint is both timely and necessary. Recent protests, including the one at the university town of Ekpoma, may have been driven by genuine concerns, but blocking roads and creating disorder do not strengthen security. On the contrary, such actions can distract security agencies, expose residents to danger and create openings for criminal elements to exploit chaos.

Governor Okpebholo is clear that while the right to peaceful protest is respected, security matters require structured engagement, not uncoordinated actions that undermine public order.

“The result was a remarkably peaceful festive period, one of the calmest Edo State has witnessed in years. That outcome did not happen by chance.”

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Interestingly, one of the most important points often overlooked in public discourse is that security is a shared responsibility. Government can deploy vehicles, recruit personnel and fund operations, but without citizen and community cooperation, intelligence sharing and vigilance, even the best strategies will struggle.

The Okpebholo administration has consistently called on traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups and residents to work with security agencies, report suspicious movements and refuse to shield criminals. This people-centred approach recognises that those who live in the communities often see what security operatives may not immediately notice.

It is also worth noting that the Okpebholo government has not limited its response to enforcement alone. Stronger anti-cultism laws, engagement with neighbouring states, and continuous review of security strategies form part of a broader effort to address the roots of crime. These measures aim to make Edo State increasingly hostile terrain for criminal networks, reducing their ability to regroup, recruit or operate freely.

Criticism is part of democracy, and public concern over security is valid. However, it is important that such criticism be informed, balanced and constructive. Painting Edo State as lawless or portraying the government as indifferent does not reflect the reality on ground. The facts show sustained investment, continuous operations and a leadership that has placed security at the very centre of its agenda. Progress may not be instant, but it is visible and measurable.

As Edo continues this difficult but necessary journey toward lasting peace, what is required from citizens is not panic or division, but unity, patience and cooperation. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to building a safe, peaceful and prosperous Edo State, and that commitment has been backed with resources, action and political will. Security remains the heartbeat of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s vision for Edo, and with collective resolve, the state can and will overcome the challenges it faces.

In times like these, calm is not weakness, and restraint is not silence. They are powerful tools that allow security efforts to work, justice to take its course, and progress to continue. Edo State’s future depends on it.

Ebojele, PhD, is the Chief Press Secretary to Edo State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo.