By Ozioruva Aliu

BENIN CITY – A group, the Peaceful Edo Initiative, under the banner of the Movement for a Peaceful Edo (PEM), has launched a statewide campaign aimed at promoting sustainable peace and tackling insecurity, cultism, and unprofessional conduct by some security personnel in Edo State.

The convener of the movement, Comrade Aghedo Gifted, at a press conference in Benin City, said the initiative was born out of growing concerns over the recent wave of violence and unrest plaguing communities across the state.

“Over the years, Edo people have lived in peace and harmony.

 “But in recent times, we have lost our peaceful coexistence to cult-related activities, police brutality, and other retrogressive actions that have cost us dearly.”

PEM decried the devastating impact of cultism on young people and families across Edo, describing it as a menace that has delivered “unrest and sorrow” to the state.

“We have lost so much and gained nothing from cultism,” Aghedo lamented. “Great talents have been buried, families have lost breadwinners, and communities are living in fear. Cultism has done no good but harm.”

The group, therefore, urged residents to reflect deeply on the consequences of cult-related violence. “Let’s ask ourselves, ‘of what benefit is cultism to me?’ ‘Would I love my child to take part in cultism?’.”

Drawing from scripture, the movement warned that the path of cultism may seem appealing to some but ultimately leads to destruction.

PEM also raised alarm over rising cases of misconduct and harassment by some officers of the Nigerian Police Force in Edo State.

“The excessive harassment of youths by men of the Nigerian Police Force has gone over the roof and calls for urgent review. We are not ignorant of the numerous complaints from citizens—many backed with video evidence.”

According to PEM, the erosion of trust between the police and the public must be addressed through urgent reforms.

“We cannot become the criminals we are fighting against,” Aghedo stressed. “We cannot create tension in a society where we are meant to ease tension.”

While commending the efforts of professional and ethical officers who remain committed to safeguarding lives, PEM condemned the actions of rogue officers whose behavior threatens peace and stability.

The movement called on Governor Monday Okpebholo and the Edo State Commissioner of Police to urgently review the operations and conduct of law enforcement officers across the state.

“The people have lost trust and confidence in the police. We must rebuild this trust,” Aghedo said.

The Peaceful Edo Movement extended an open invitation to all stakeholders—Edo indigenes at home and abroad, residents, community leaders, and security agencies—to join hands in reclaiming the state’s legacy of peace.