…urged to intensify fight against insecurity

By Gabriel Ewepu

ABUJA – THE President Ogbona Diaspora in the Americas, Dr Charles Orbih, yesterday, hailed the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, over his victory at the Edo State Election Tribunal.

In a congratulatory message signed by Orbih, he described Okpebholo’s victory as well deserved, and he said as a concerned citizen of Edo State from Edo North, the Governor needs to urgently tackle security challenges in the State.

He said: “Congratulations on your well-deserved victory at the Edo State Election Tribunal in Abuja on March 2, 2025. While the opposition has signaled its intent to appeal, governance cannot be placed on hold, and the immediate security concerns confronting our beloved state require urgent attention while the courts carry out their duties.

“As a concerned citizen of Edo State from Edo North, I join other progressive problem-solvers in expressing deep dismay over the deteriorating security situation across our beloved state—the heartbeat of our nation. But could it be that the nation remains apathetic because its heart is struggling to beat?

“The rising cases of kidnappings, armed robberies, and attacks on rural communities have left residents living in fear. From the highways to the farmlands, and even in urban centres like Uromi, criminal activities have escalated, making life increasingly difficult for our people. Effective governance cannot thrive amid insecurity—decisive action is needed now.

“Critical Security Concerns: The recent abduction of travelers along the Auchi-Ibilo highway and attacks on citizens in Okpella and Okpekpe highlight the urgent need for a stronger security response.The recent Uromi killings are not isolated incidents. These attacks underscore a deepening security crisis that, if left unaddressed, could embolden criminals and further destabilize communities.

“Law enforcement must be equipped and empowered to restore order.The rising fear of cultists and unchecked vigilante activities is further destabilizing communities, eroding trust in the government’s ability to maintain order.”

Speaking with deep concern, Orbih who is a receipent of a prestigious award ‘Global Legacy Leadership Award’, also recommended that the State Government should,
“Deploy more security personnel to high-risk areas and establish rapid response units.

“Strengthen intelligence-gathering and surveillance to proactively prevent criminal activities.

“Empower and regulate local vigilante groups under strict government oversight.

“Invest in security infrastructure, including CCTV surveillance, drone monitoring, and emergency response systems.

“Engage traditional rulers, community leaders, and youth groups in peacebuilding and security efforts.”

However, he warned that, “If we fail to act decisively, we risk a crippling blow to investments, tourism, and overall economic stability.

“Investors, both local and foreign, will hesitate to do business in a state where security is uncertain.

“Tourists, drawn to our rich history and cultural heritage, will avoid our land if safety cannot be guaranteed.

“Even our farmers, the backbone of our agrarian economy, are abandoning their fields for fear of attack.

“Your leadership in tackling this crisis will not only secure lives and property but will also restore investor confidence, boost tourism, and reaffirm Edo’s position as a beacon of progress in Nigeria.

“The people of Edo State deserve safety, justice, and peace. Now is the time to act—swiftly and decisively.

“I remain committed to the collective effort of ensuring a safe, secure, and prosperous Edo State.”