Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has ordered an immediate and intensified security operation in Ekpoma following the kidnapping and killing of a young man, which has thrown the university community into mourning and unrest.
The governor personally visited the town yesterday, to assess the situation firsthand after news of the victim’s death on Friday, January 9, sparked violent protests and deep-seated fear among residents and students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU).
The victim, who was reportedly abducted at the gate of his brother’s residence in Ihumudumu and found dead in a nearby bush.
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The incident triggered a wave of fear, anger, and frustration that the governor says his administration is determined to address.
“This tragic incident is heartbreaking,” Okpebholo stated. “I understand the fear residents feel. No one should have to live in fear or feel unsafe in their own community. The lives and safety of Edo people remain my highest priority.”
In response to the “critical situation,” the governor issued a series of directives aimed at restoring order and ensuring that those responsible were brought to justice.
He ordered the immediate deployment of security agencies to Ekpoma and its surrounding areas, with intensified operations to prevent further abductions.
The governor also held meetings with community leaders and university stakeholders to develop a localised safety framework tailored to the area.
Additionally, the state began working closely with federal and local authorities to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve inter-agency collaboration.
The governor’s visit and statement also served as an appeal for calm following a weekend of protests where angry youths reportedly targeted local businesses and pulled down political billboards.
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A local livestock market was also disrupted during the height of the tension.
While acknowledging the “voices of the people,” Okpebholo urged residents to remain law-abiding to allow security agencies to carry out their operations effectively.
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