The political landscape in Edo State has erupted in a fierce clash between the ruling government and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over rising concerns of increasing kidnappings and violence in the region. The latest war of words follows claims that Edo has become the “capital of kidnapping and violent crimes” in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Monday, Chris Nehikhare, the PDP Publicity Secretary, expressed alarm over what he described as the worsening security situation in the state. Nehikhare accused the state government of failing to curb criminal activities, despite receiving a substantial N750 million in monthly security allocations. He highlighted the state’s growing reputation as a haven for criminal gangs, including kidnappers, who he claimed operate with increasing impunity.
“The current administration has allowed Edo to become a hotspot for criminals, and residents now live in constant fear,” Nehikhare said. He pointed to the recent 12-day kidnapping of Prince Eniola Olajuni, National President of the Afenifere Youth Council, in Ibilo, Akoko-Edo LGA, as evidence that criminals are growing bolder. The PDP official also cited the tragic loss of 22 lives in recent weeks, naming victims such as Batemue Philip Ebo, Christopher Bello, and Victor Ogedengbe. Alongside these fatalities, millions of naira worth of properties have been destroyed, according to Nehikhare.
The PDP’s criticism was directed squarely at Governor Monday Okpebholo, whom Nehikhare accused of neglecting security in favor of political “godfathers and thugs.” He claimed that the governor had crippled the state’s vigilante network, contributing to a total collapse of law and order in the region. Nehikhare further noted that despite receiving nearly double the amount of security funding compared to the previous administration, the state remains paralyzed by crime.
Responding swiftly, Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, dismissed the PDP’s claims as “reckless, misleading, and baseless.” Itua vehemently rejected the assertion that Edo has become the “capital of kidnapping and violent crimes,” accusing the PDP of spreading malicious fabrications. He reminded the opposition of the dark days under their leadership, when cult violence claimed the lives of over 100 people and even led to the abduction of the PDP chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, in the heart of Benin City.
Itua emphasized that the Okpebholo administration has been prudent in its use of the N750 million security vote. He outlined several key measures taken by the state government to combat crime, including the deployment of special tactical teams, a crackdown on cultism, the acquisition of advanced security equipment, and the distribution of 1,000 high-performance motorcycles for patrols and illegal arms mop-up operations.
While the two sides continue to exchange accusations, Itua was adamant that security in Edo is improving, citing ongoing efforts to restore law and order. “Edo is open for business, security is improving, and this reckless propaganda will not deter investors,” he said, reiterating the government’s commitment to creating a safe and prosperous environment for all residents.
