By Mercy Akuba
The Senator representing Edo Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Joseph Ikpea, has endorsed Governor Monday Okpebholo’s proposal for the speedy trial of suspected kidnappers and cultists in Edo State, describing it as a bold step towards strengthening security and deterring criminal activities.
Ikpea also commended the governor for the recent crackdown on kidnapping syndicates operating in parts of the state, particularly the rescue of a woman abducted at the popular Vegetable Market in Benin City and the arrest of one of the suspected kidnappers involved in the incident.
The Edo State Police Commissioner, CP, Monday Agbobika , alongside Governor Okpebholo, on Thursday paraded several suspected kidnappers, including one of the suspects linked to the Vegetable Market abduction that occurred last week Sunday.
During the event, the governor reiterated his commitment to tackling insecurity, revealing plans to facilitate the establishment of a special court to ensure the speedy prosecution of suspected kidnappers and cultists.
Governor Okpebholo also announced a reward of N10 million for security operatives in recognition of their professionalism and swift response, which led to the successful rescue of the victim and the arrest of a suspect.
Reacting to the developments in a statement issued from his country home in Ewatto, Esan South-East Local Government Area,
Senator Ikpea praised the governor’s unwavering support for security agencies and the efforts of law enforcement personnel in safeguarding lives and property across the state.
According to the senator, “Governor Okpebholo’s prompt directive to the Edo State Police Command to track down the perpetrators of the Vegetable Market kidnapping immediately after the incident is highly commendable.
The swift response of the police and other security agencies, which resulted in the rescue of the victim and the arrest of a member of the gang, demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting the people of Edo State.”
He noted that the governor’s decisive action sends a clear message to criminal elements that there is no hiding place for them in Edo State.
“This development serves as a strong warning to criminals and a confidence booster for law-abiding citizens who desire a safe and secure environment,” Ikpea said.
The senator reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at improving security across Edo Central and the entire state.
“As the senator representing Edo Central, I remain committed to collaborating with the Edo State Government and relevant stakeholders to ensure the safety of our people. I will also continue to work with my colleagues representing other senatorial districts to support efforts geared towards securing every part of Edo State,” he stated.
Ikpea further reiterated his earlier call on residents and indigenes of the state to take security seriously and actively support efforts aimed at combating crime.
“When every citizen sees security as a collective responsibility, criminal elements will find it increasingly difficult to operate. They will either abandon their criminal activities or leave the state altogether, knowing that Edo is no longer a safe haven for criminals,” he added.