The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo has ordered the heads of various security agencies in Edo State to make State unsafe for criminals. This is even as hundreds of young women on Tuesday stormed major streets in Benin City metropolis. They protested against the spate of cult-related killings in the State.
The Governor gave the directive during an inaugural security meeting held on Monday night in Benin, the Edo State capital.
This was contained in a statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Fred Itua, on Tuesday.
According to Itua, the Governor stated that his administration places high priority on security.
Okpebholo noted that his administration would do everything possible to ensure that the State was safe for every resident. He added that his administration would not fold its arms while cult-related killings go on in the State unabated.
The Governor, therefore, urged security agencies to collaborate and ensure that they put a stop to killings in the State.
He said, “During my campaign, I placed security above all. It is a priority for my administration because it is important. The rate of cultism is not acceptable to my administration.
“The issue of cultism is not acceptable in Edo. We do not want to lose anybody and will be firm about this.
“We must smoke criminals out of the State. Wherever they are hiding and ensure that the State is safe for all.”
Protesting Edo ladies
However, on Tuesday, hundreds of young women stormed major streets in Benin City the Edo State Capita. The women dressed in blacks, were protesting against the spate of cult-related killings in Edo State.
According to DAILY POST the women who are between the ages of 30 and 35, lamented that the killings have turned most of them into widows. While also making it difficult for others to get husbands.
The protesting women, who were clad in black, called on the Edo State Government, traditional institutions, religious bodies, and security agencies in the State, to help stop the killings.
The ladies who were chanting songs and carrying placards, stormed the premises of the Edo State House of Assembly. And later reached the secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Edo State Chapter.
Speaking at the venue, the ladies condemned the incessant killing of young men in cult clashes in the State. They noted that the killings are making it difficult for girls to get husbands. This is even as it was capable of creating scarcity of men in the State.
One of the protesters, who identified herself as Precious Ikponmwen, said the killings have turned women in their 20s and 30s into widows.
she said, “We are tired of the killings. Many young girls are turning into widows in their 20s and 30s. Almost all Edo State households have been affected. It is difficult to train children as a single parent.
“Those fighting are our husbands and brothers.
“We want government at all levels and security agencies to help us stop these killings,” Ikponmwen pleaded.
Another protesters, Ojo Gloria Eki, stated that youths are the hope and future of any nation. She lamented that it was disheartening to witness the lives of the youths cut short by violence.
Presenting a letter co-signed by Eki and Ikpowonsa, the protesters noted that the intervention of governments, traditional institutions and security agencies can help to put a stop to the incessant killings of youths in the State.
The letter titled, ‘Appeal for Peace and Unity in Edo State’, called for end to the incessant killings in the State.
It read, “We are writing to you with a heavy heart regarding the recent tragic events unfolding in Edo State. Specifically, the senseless killings of youths that have brought sorrow and despair to our communities.
“As concerned citizens, we humbly seek your wisdom and guidance in advocating for the restoration of peace and harmony in our beloved State.
“The youths are the hope and future of our nation. And it is disheartening to witness their lives being cut short by violence and conflict.
“As the revered custodian of our cultural heritage and the symbol of unity for the people of Benin, your voice holds great influence in fostering reconciliation and promoting dialogue among all members of our society.
“We appeal to you sir, to use your esteemed position to advocate for an immediate end to the senseless violence plaguing our communities.
“By encouraging peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and understanding, we all can pave the way for healing and reconciliation among all parties involved.
“Your guidance and support in mediating conflicts, promoting tolerance, and advocating for justice will be instrumental in restoring peace and stability in Edo State. Let us stand together as a united community, bound by the values of peace, compassion, and respect for all individuals.
“We humbly request you, sir, to lend your voice and authority to the cause of peace and unity in Edo State. Your leadership and influence can make a significant difference in bringing about positive change. And ensuring a brighter future for our youth.”
ISUIKWUATO VOICE gathered that more than 50 persons have been killed in a space of one month in the renewed cult-related clashes in the State.
A few days ago, a man, whose wedding was fixed for next month, was shot dead by suspected cultists. The man was killed at a friend’s shop about 100 metres from the Esigie Police Division in Oredo LGA.
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