The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has held Governor Monday Okpebholo responsible for what it describes as a worsening security crisis.
The party cited the recent killing of travelers in Uromi as a glaring example of the state’s deteriorating law and order.
The tragic incident, in which a group of travelers accused of kidnapping were brutally lynched by a mob in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area, has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation.
In response, Governor Okpebholo ordered the immediate suspension of all unauthorized vigilante groups across the state and relieved the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), of his duties.
However, the Edo PDP, in a statement issued on Sunday by its Caretaker Committee Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, dismissed the governor’s actions as reactionary and inadequate.
The PDP stated that the recent classification of the perpetrators as an illegal vigilante group only highlights the administration’s lack of a coordinated security strategy and its pattern of shifting blame.
It further described the removal of CP Friday Ibadin as an implicit admission that the state’s security system is in disarray.
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The party added that the February 5 protest by members of the Edo Security Corps was a clear warning of deep-seated inefficiencies, yet Okpebholo failed to address the issue, and now innocent Edo citizens are paying the price with their lives.
The opposition party criticised the administration for allowing an unregulated vigilante group to operate unchecked, leading to extrajudicial killings.
It argued that the government’s failure to properly oversee security operations had emboldened lawless elements.
To prevent further violence and restore public confidence, the PDP outlined several demands, including a comprehensive security review through a full audit and restructuring of the Edo State Security Corps to eliminate unregistered groups and enforce strict accountability measures.
The party also called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of those involved in the Uromi killings, including any individuals or groups that enabled the crime.
It demanded federal intervention through the deployment of security agencies to assist in stabilizing the state, given the perceived failure of the current administration to maintain law and order.
Additionally, it urged the implementation of a new security framework through a bipartisan security summit involving key stakeholders such as traditional rulers, community leaders, security agencies, and opposition groups to establish a more effective strategy for combating crime.
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The PDP declared that the safety of Edo people must not be compromised due to incompetence, adding that Okpebholo must either take decisive action or accept that his government has failed and make way for those who can ensure the security of lives and property.
The party reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for justice and protecting all citizens, warning that Edo State cannot afford to remain on its current perilous trajectory.
