Governor Monday Okpebholo has directed the Edo Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, to begin an immediate investigation into a kidnapping incident at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road in Benin City. The abduction occurred on Sunday, prompting the governor's intervention the following day. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr Patrick Ebojele, Okpebholo described the incident as unacceptable and a direct assault on innocent residents. He emphasized that the investigation must be swift and coordinated to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and the arrest of those responsible.
Okpebholo stated that the Edo government would not tolerate any act threatening public safety or disturbing the peace of the state. He urged residents across Edo to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to the nearest police station, stressing that timely intelligence would aid ongoing police operations. The governor reaffirmed his administration's commitment to ensuring those behind the attack are apprehended and face the full weight of the law. The directive was formally communicated on Monday, with the statement confirming the urgency of the investigation and the administration's focus on restoring public confidence in security.
The governor calls for a swift investigation days after a kidnapping in a major market, yet the victims remain unrecovered. His administration insists on zero tolerance for threats to public safety, but the incident exposes a gap between policy and protection in urban centres. Residents are asked to report suspicious activity while the police response remains reactive rather than preventive. This places the burden of security on ordinary people despite the state's enforcement mandate.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
