By Ayomide Otitoju
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has held Governor Monday Okpebholo responsible for what it describes as a “rapidly deteriorating security situation” in the state, following the recent killing of travelers in Uromi.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area, saw a mob gruesomely murder individuals accused of kidnapping. The act has since drawn widespread condemnation from the public.
In response, Governor Okpebholo suspended all unauthorized vigilante groups operating in the state and also relieved the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), of his duties.
However, the Edo PDP, in a statement issued on Sunday by its Caretaker Committee Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, criticized the governor’s handling of the security crisis.
“The classification of the perpetrators as an illegal vigilante group only exposes the absence of a coherent security framework under the current administration,” the statement read. “The suspension of the Security Corps Commander is a clear admission that the state’s security architecture has failed.”
The opposition party also referenced the February 5 mutiny by members of the Edo Security Corps, warning that it was an early sign of systemic inefficiencies, which it claimed the governor ignored.
The PDP outlined a series of urgent measures it believes are necessary to restore security in Edo State, including:
A comprehensive audit and overhaul of the Edo State Security Corps to eliminate unregistered groups and ensure accountability.
The immediate arrest and prosecution of all perpetrators of the Uromi killings, along with their sponsors.
The deployment of federal security agencies to stabilize the situation, given what the party described as the state government’s inability to maintain order.
The implementation of a new security strategy through a non-partisan summit involving traditional rulers, community leaders, security agencies, and opposition parties.
“The safety of Edo people cannot be sacrificed at the altar of incompetence,” the PDP declared, calling on Governor Okpebholo to take decisive action or step aside for those capable of securing the state.
The party reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the protection of all citizens and ensuring that justice is served in the wake of the Uromi killings.
