Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has condemned the killing of a youth at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) main gate, which occurred on Sunday in broad daylight. The incident, carried out by gunmen, prompted a statement from the governor's office released on Monday through his Chief Press Secretary. Okpebholo described the act as brazen, cold-blooded, and an affront to human dignity, calling it completely unacceptable. He extended condolences to the family, friends and associates of the deceased, whose life was violently cut short.
The Edo State Police Command has begun investigations, with security agencies working continuously to identify and arrest those responsible. The governor assured that the case will not be swept under the rug and promised full consequences under the law for the perpetrators. Since taking office, his administration has carried out sustained security operations in cult-prone communities, leading to the arrest and prosecution of suspected cultists.
Collaboration with the Nigerian Police Force, Department of State Services, and Nigerian Army has been strengthened to dismantle cult networks. The government has also engaged traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups and civil society organisations in prevention efforts, alongside supporting rehabilitation for youths vulnerable to cult recruitment. Okpebholo acknowledged progress but stressed that the killing shows the fight against cultism is far from over. He reiterated that Edo State will not be a sanctuary for criminals. Members of the public are urged to share information with security agencies, with assurances of confidentiality.
Monday Okpebholo condemns a daylight killing at UNIBEN gate yet claims his anti-cultism efforts are already yielding results, creating a contradiction between declared success and ongoing public violence. The same security measures said to be effective failed to prevent an armed attack at a major university entrance. This undermines confidence in the administration's claim of control over cult activities in Edo State. The public is now left questioning how many more killings must occur before the reality matches the official narrative.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
