The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has accused Governor Monday Okpebholo of failing to manage the state’s security crisis. The party blamed his administration for the brutal killing of travelers in Uromi.
A mob lynched suspected kidnappers in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area, sparking widespread outrage. In response, Governor Okpebholo suspended all illegal vigilante groups. He also removed CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.) as Commander of the Edo State Security Corps.
However, the PDP, through its Caretaker Committee Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, criticized these actions. The party called them reactionary and ineffective.
“This government’s claim that the perpetrators were an illegal vigilante group exposes its lack of a structured security framework,” Nehikhare said. “Suspending CP Ibadin confirms that the state’s security system has collapsed.”
He accused the governor of ignoring warning signs. The February 5 mutiny by Edo Security Corps members, he said, signaled deeper issues. Yet, the administration failed to act.
The opposition party also condemned the lack of oversight. It criticized the government for allowing an unregulated vigilante group to operate freely, leading to extrajudicial killings.
PDP Demands Urgent Security Reforms
To address the crisis, the PDP outlined urgent demands:
Security Overhaul: The government must audit and restructure the Edo State Security Corps. Unauthorized groups must be disbanded, and accountability enforced.
Justice for Victims: Authorities should arrest and prosecute those responsible for the Uromi killings, including their sponsors.
Federal Intervention: The PDP urged the federal government to deploy security agencies, citing the state’s inability to maintain law and order.
New Security Strategy: The party called for a non-partisan security summit. Stakeholders, including traditional rulers and community leaders, must help develop an effective security plan.
The PDP warned that the safety of Edo residents must not be sacrificed due to administrative failures. It urged Governor Okpebholo to act decisively or step aside.
