Senator Joseph Ikpea, representing Edo Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has explained the rationale behind Governor Monday Okpebholo’s proposal for the speedy trial of suspected kidnappers and cultists in Edo State, saying swift justice would serve as a strong deterrent to criminal activities and enhance public safety.
In a statement issued from his Ewatto country home in Esan South-East Local Government Area and made available to journalists, Ikpea commended Governor Okpebholo for the recent crackdown on suspected kidnapping syndicates operating in parts of the state, particularly the rescue of a woman abducted at Benin City’s popular Vegetable Market and the arrest of a member of the gang.
The Edo State Police Command, alongside Governor Okpebholo, on Thursday paraded suspected kidnappers, including one of those allegedly involved in the Vegetable Market abduction. During the event, the governor reiterated his commitment to strengthening efforts against kidnapping and cult-related crimes, including pursuing measures that would ensure the speedy trial of suspects.
In appreciation of the efforts of security agencies in rescuing the victim and apprehending suspects linked to the incident, Governor Okpebholo announced a financial reward of ₦10 million.
Reacting to the development, Senator Ikpea praised the governor’s support for security agencies and commended the police and other security operatives for their prompt response to the incident.
According to him, “Governor Okpebholo’s prompt directive to the Edo Police Command to track down the perpetrators of the Vegetable Market kidnap incident immediately after it occurred, and the swift response by the police and other security agencies that led to the rescue of the victim and the arrest of a member of the gang, are highly commendable.
“This action sends a strong message to criminal elements across the state that there is no hiding place for them and serves as a major confidence booster for law-abiding residents who deserve to live and conduct their businesses in a safe environment.”
Ikpea reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating with the state government and other stakeholders to strengthen security across Edo Central and the entire state.
“As the senator representing Edo Central, I remain committed to working closely with the state government to ensure the safety of our people. I am equally prepared to collaborate with my colleagues representing the other senatorial districts in supporting efforts aimed at making every part of Edo State secure,” he said.
Moreover, the senator renewed his call on residents and indigenes of Edo State to regard security as a shared civic responsibility.
According to him, “When everyone becomes actively involved in safeguarding their communities and providing useful information to security agencies, criminal elements will either abandon their activities or leave the state entirely, having realised that Edo is no longer a safe haven for criminals.”
He stressed that collective vigilance, community cooperation and sustained support for security agencies remain critical to winning the fight against kidnapping, cultism and other forms of criminality in the state.
