The Edo State Government has launched a full-scale investigation into the gruesome murder of two young men in Iyanomo Community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, with a vow to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The probe is being handled by the Special Security Squad, codenamed Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers, in collaboration with security agencies and community leaders. The squad was led to the troubled community at the weekend by the Government House Chief Security Officer (CSO), CSP Osaro Roberts, and the Principal Security Officer to the Governor, Okoh Saturday, to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the killings of Eboh Enomwa and Stephen Imaghodo.
Speaking during the visit, the Secretary of the squad, Barr. John Izegaebe, condemned the violence, linking it to a leadership tussle between rival factions in Iyanomo.
“Our findings so far point to a leadership struggle that degenerated into violence and claimed the lives of two young men. This is unacceptable. The Governor has directed us to ensure all those behind this heinous act are identified, arrested, and prosecuted. No one is above the law,” Izegaebe declared.
He further condoled with the families of the victims, assuring them of justice, while warning community leaders that disputes must never be settled through violence.
“Governor Okpebholo has zero tolerance for crime, and anyone who foments unrest in Edo communities will face the full wrath of the law,” he added.
Residents of Iyanomo, who welcomed the security team with relief, applauded the Governor’s swift intervention and called for sustained government presence in the community to forestall further bloodshed.
The state government has pledged that the investigation will be thorough, impartial, and far-reaching, stressing that the culprits, no matter how highly placed, will be brought to book.
