By Mercy Akuba
The Senator representing Edo Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Joseph Ikpea, has commended Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for the proactive decision to temporarily close some secondary schools in the state following a security alert issued by the Department of State Services (DSS) over an alleged plan by bandits to attack schools.
Senator Ikpea said the governor’s swift response demonstrated responsible leadership and a firm understanding of the primary duty of government, which is the protection of lives and property.
In a statement signed and made available to journalists in Benin City, the lawmaker noted that given the prevailing security challenges across the country, Governor Okpebholo acted appropriately by taking the DSS warning seriously.
“I want to commend His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State, for the prompt decision to close three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following a security alert from the Department of State Services indicating that criminal elements were planning attacks on schools in Edo North with the intention of abducting students,” he said.
“Governor Okpebholo’s swift action reflects uncommon leadership and a clear understanding of the principles of governance, which place the welfare and safety of the people above all else.
“Although the decision may have caused some inconvenience, especially as students are currently sitting for national and sub-regional examinations, it was far better to take preventive measures than to wait for a tragedy to occur.”
The senator also urged residents, particularly those in Edo Central Senatorial District, to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements and activities to security agencies.
“At this critical time, security should not be viewed as the sole responsibility of government. Every citizen has a role to play in safeguarding our communities.
“I urge the people of Edo Central not to assume that the DSS alert concerns only Edo North because that was the area specifically mentioned. Criminal elements do not discriminate based on location, tribe, or district.
“Our people must remain alert, pay attention to unusual movements within their communities, and report suspicious persons or activities to the appropriate authorities. We must be proactive rather than reactive.”
Senator Ikpea further praised the DSS and other security agencies operating in the state for their collaboration with the Governor Okpebholo administration in maintaining peace and security across Edo State.
He assured residents that he would continue to support initiatives aimed at strengthening security and eliminating criminal activities within the state.
It will be recalled that a leaked memo from the Edo State Command of the Department of State Services, addressed to the State Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), revealed intelligence indicating plans by suspected kidnappers to target public schools in Edo North Senatorial District.
According to the memo, security operatives intercepted communications between suspects discussing the planned attacks.
The report also disclosed that a suspect was arrested within the premises of one of the affected public schools while allegedly conducting surveillance ahead of the planned operation.