- Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, gives a 48-hour ultimatum to the Commissioner of Police to end cult-related violence
- The Drivers Welfare Association and Network Empowerment was also banned over alleged involvement in state unrest
- The governor pledges decisive action to restore public safety and prevent further tension in the state
The governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the State Commissioner of Police, Umoru Ozigi, to put an end to the ongoing cult-related violence in the state.
In a statement released by Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Okpebholo directed the Commissioner of Police to mobilise officers across various divisions to take immediate action and stop the escalating violence.
Additionally, the Governor has banned the Drivers Welfare Association and Network Empowerment, citing their involvement in creating unrest. This decision is part of broader measures to curb violence in the state.
Earlier on November 13, Okpebholo had ordered an indefinite suspension of all revenue collection activities in Edo State, including collections at motor parks. He noted that this decision would be reviewed, with plans to restructure the revenue collection process.
"As the Governor of Edo State, I cannot allow cultism to thrive here. We must put an end to this swiftly. I have directed the Commissioner of Police to address this issue within 48 hours. Those responsible for the killings must be stopped immediately," said Governor Okpebholo.
He also emphasised the ban on certain associations causing unrest, particularly in Benin City, and instructed the police to enforce the ban strictly.
The Governor reaffirmed his commitment to making Edo State safe, highlighting that public safety was a key priority during his campaign.
He emphasised his determination to restore order and stated that the government would take decisive action to prevent groups from creating unnecessary tension in the state.
Monday Okpebholo sworn in as Edo governor as Obaseki’s 8-year tenure ends
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that Monday Okpebholo was sworn in as the governor of Edo State, having won against Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the September gubernatorial election.
The event occurred on Tuesday, November 12, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, the state capital, two months following the All Progressives Congress (APC)'s victory.