Two weeks into his tenure, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has faced backlash over conflicting statements regarding the status of the Edo State Security Network, sparking concerns about coordination and preparedness in his administration.

On Friday, the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, announced the lifting of a suspension on the security outfit imposed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) before the September 21 governorship election. However, it was revealed that the suspension had already been lifted by former Governor Godwin Obaseki on October 7 during a security council meeting.

Critics, including PDP chieftain Barrister Anthony Ehilebo, have described the misstep as evidence of poor preparation, while security experts have warned that the administration’s focus must shift toward addressing rising insecurity.

Bright Amadi, a Benin-based security consultant, noted, “Understanding the status of the state’s security network should have been a priority given the urgent need to address insecurity.”

Ehilebo accused the administration of “playing politics” with security policies, calling out its reliance on a structure previously criticized as Obaseki’s “private army” during the campaign. He also criticized the government’s approach as unfocused, saying, “Instead of governance, they are preoccupied with photo-ops and witch hunts.”

As concerns mount, analysts emphasize the importance of strategic planning and clear communication to navigate the challenges ahead, urging the administration to prioritize security and governance over political missteps.