Ekpoma Killing: Okpebholo’s Aide Slams ‘Misleading Narratives,’ Defends Govt Security Response

By Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele

The Edo State Government has called for more balanced and context-driven public discourse on security, following reactions to the recent killing of businessman, Justin Otene, in Ekpoma.

In a statement, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, described the incident as tragic and condemnable, extending the governor’s sympathies to the victim’s family and the Ekpoma community.

Ebojele said the state government responded swiftly to the incident, deploying security agencies to Ekpoma and surrounding areas with directives to intensify surveillance, track down the perpetrators, and prevent further escalation.

According to him, tactical operations were reinforced, intelligence gathering activated, and inter-agency collaboration strengthened to contain the situation.

“The response reflects the governor’s action-driven approach to security and his recognition that such challenges require urgency, coordination, and sustained attention,” he said.

While acknowledging public concern, Ebojele criticised what he described as “misleading narratives” in sections of the national media, warning against oversimplifying complex security issues.

He specifically faulted commentary by Arise Television presenter, Oseni Rufai, arguing that it relied on sweeping generalisations drawn from a single incident.

“Such interpretations risk reducing a multi-layered security challenge to a political indictment, without adequate consideration of federal policing structures, intelligence limitations, and inherited security conditions,” he said.

In contrast, Ebojele commended journalist Reuben Abati for what he described as a more measured and contextually grounded analysis.

He noted that Abati acknowledged both the seriousness of the incident and the structural constraints under which state governments operate, while still emphasising accountability.

“The kind of balanced perspective strengthens democratic engagement rather than distorting public perception,” Ebojele added.

He reiterated that the Okpebholo administration has prioritised security under its SHINE agenda, highlighting efforts to strengthen legal frameworks against kidnapping and cultism, improve collaboration with federal security agencies, and enhance local security architecture.

Ebojele described Ekpoma as a strategic location, noting its significance as host community to Ambrose Alli University and a hub for commerce and youth activities.

He said the recent security deployments form part of a broader, sustained strategy to stabilise the area and restore public confidence.

“Security governance cannot be fairly assessed through isolated incidents without consideration of structural realities and ongoing interventions,” he said.

He added that while constructive criticism remains essential in a democracy, it must be rooted in accuracy and context.

“As Edo State mourns the loss of Justin Otene, public discourse must remain fair and responsible. The ultimate goal is a safer state where communities can thrive without fear,” he stated.

Ebojele reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents that efforts to address insecurity would continue with urgency and determination.