Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has alleged that some residents of the state now travel to other parts of Nigeria to recruit criminals who are later involved in kidnapping, armed robbery and other crimes within Edo.
The governor made the claim during the 2026 Ministers’ Conference organised by the Edo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Benin City, where issues relating to security and public safety were discussed.
According to him, insecurity remains a challenge, but he also expressed concern over what he described as false or exaggerated reports being circulated on social media. He said some of the reports create unnecessary fear and paint a misleading picture of the security situation in the state.
Okpebholo recalled a recent incident on Sapele Road, explaining that he immediately alerted security agencies after receiving information about a security threat. However, investigations later showed that the report was false.
The governor said false alarms are making the work of security agencies more difficult and can also be used to damage the image of the government. He maintained that while genuine security concerns exist, misleading reports should not be encouraged.
He also warned against defending or pleading on behalf of people arrested for criminal activities. According to him, some individuals who suddenly acquire expensive cars and build houses without clear sources of income often come under suspicion during investigations.
Okpebholo further disclosed that volunteers have been deployed to forest areas across the state as part of efforts to prevent criminal groups from establishing bases in Edo.
The governor said his administration remains committed to tackling insecurity and ensuring that criminal elements do not find safe havens within the state.
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