INSECURITY: GOV OKPEBHOLO LAUNCHES SPECIAL ANTI-KIDNAPPING, ANTI-CULTISM SQUAD IN EDO STATE

In a decisive move to tackle the rising wave of insecurity in Edo State, Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo has approved the establishment of a Special Security Squad dedicated to rooting out kidnappers and cultists terrorising the state.

The new operation, aptly named “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists,” is a strategic initiative under the Office of the Principal Security Officer (PSO) to the Governor and will be coordinated jointly by the PSO and the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the Government House.

For years, Edo State has battled escalating security challenges, particularly in the form of cult-related violence and kidnapping. Areas worst affected include Benin City, Ekpoma, Auchi, and surrounding communities, with frequent reports of abductions, cult clashes, and extortion by criminal gangs.

Upon assuming office, Governor Okpebholo declared security a frontline priority. He initially offered amnesty and reintegration programs for repentant cultists, encouraging them to abandon crime and contribute positively to society — an initiative that recorded early successes.

However, with hardened criminal elements continuing their activities, a more aggressive security response has become necessary. According to a formal memo dated July 11, 2025, the new operation will work in synergy with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to dismantle cult and kidnap networks across all 18 local government areas of the state.

The special squad will be made up of carefully vetted able-bodied operatives, including repentant cultists, local hunters, and community vigilantes, forming rapid-response units in every LGA to ensure community-based security operations.

To enhance mobility and tactical advantage, the government has approved the deployment of operational vehicles and motorcycles for patrol and interception operations.

This initiative draws from precedent — in 2016, a similar civilian-driven anti-cult operation in Ekpoma drastically reduced cult-related killings and kidnappings. Governor Okpebholo’s administration is optimistic that replicating such community-driven models across the state will deliver tangible and lasting security gains. Speaking after granting the approval, Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his zero-tolerance policy on violent crimes.

“We will not allow criminality to dictate the future of our state. Edo must be safe again — for our children, for investors, and for sons and daughters in the diaspora eager to return home and contribute,” the Governor declared. Security agencies have since been placed on high alert statewide. The Governor further directed the PSO and CSO to ensure strict supervision, accountability, and professionalism in implementing the new operation, emphasising the importance of public trust and community engagement.