Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has strongly condemned the reported kidnapping of a woman at the popular Vegetable Market along Airport Road in Benin City, describing the incident as unacceptable and a serious threat to public safety.
The governor, in a statement issued on Monday through his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, directed the Edo State Commissioner of Police to immediately launch a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that all necessary measures are taken to rescue the victim and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Governor Okpebholo said the state government would not tolerate criminal acts capable of undermining the peace and security of Edo State, stressing that the safety of residents remains a top priority of his administration.
“I strongly condemn this act of kidnapping and I call on the Commissioner of Police to immediately open an investigation into the matter,” the governor stated.
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“As a government, we will not tolerate any act that threatens public safety and security or disturbs the peace of the state.”
The governor’s reaction followed reports of the abduction of a woman who was allegedly kidnapped while shopping at one of the stores within the Vegetable Market on Sunday. The incident, which was reportedly captured in a video that later circulated on social media, sparked concern among residents and renewed calls for stronger security measures in the state.
Okpebholo assured the public that security agencies had been directed to act swiftly and decisively in handling the matter. He emphasised that every available resource would be deployed to ensure the victim’s safe return and the arrest of those responsible for the crime.
The governor also appealed to residents of Benin City and other parts of Edo State to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing useful information that could assist ongoing investigations.
He urged members of the public to promptly report suspicious movements, unusual activities or security concerns to the nearest police station, noting that timely intelligence remains critical in preventing crime and supporting security operations.
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According to him, community participation and effective collaboration between residents and security agencies are essential in tackling criminal activities and safeguarding lives and property across the state.
Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening security and ensuring that Edo State remains peaceful and conducive for economic activities, investment and social development.
He assured residents that the government would not relent in its efforts until those behind the kidnapping were apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law.
The incident has once again drawn attention to growing concerns over kidnapping and other security challenges in parts of the country, with citizens calling for sustained efforts by government and security agencies to protect lives and property.
