Edo Govt Intensifies Statewide Evacuation of Mentally Challenged Persons in Benin

The Edo State Government has continued its statewide operation aimed at evacuating mentally challenged persons from major streets and public areas within the Benin City metropolis.

The exercise, carried out on Monday by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, is part of efforts to address mental health concerns, improve public safety, and provide rehabilitation for vulnerable individuals across the state.

The operation was supervised by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, alongside the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Joy Ihensekhien, and officials of the Ministry’s Rehabilitation Department.

During the exercise, ministry officials moved around strategic locations in Benin City to identify and evacuate mentally challenged persons living on the streets without shelter or proper care.

Speaking during the operation, Hon. Abdallah said the exercise was designed as a humanitarian intervention to provide treatment, rehabilitation, and support for affected individuals rather than to stigmatize them.

According to her, many of those rescued require urgent medical attention, psychosocial support, and rehabilitation, adding that the government has a responsibility to ensure they receive proper care and protection.

She noted that the exercise would be sustained across Edo State as part of the government’s broader social welfare and public safety efforts.

The Commissioner also appealed to residents to cooperate with the Ministry by reporting cases of mentally unstable persons requiring urgent intervention while encouraging compassion toward vulnerable individuals.

Officials of the Rehabilitation Department disclosed that evacuated persons would undergo medical evaluation and rehabilitation processes aimed at facilitating recovery and possible reintegration with their families and communities.

The ongoing operation forms part of the Edo State Government’s social welfare programme targeted at tackling homelessness, mental health challenges, and the protection of vulnerable groups across the state.