By Charles Chijioke
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has expressed concern over what he described as a disturbing trend of residents allegedly collaborating with criminal elements from outside the state to carry out kidnappings and other violent crimes.
Afrilensnews reports that the governor made the disclosure Thursday while speaking at the 2026 Ministers’ Conference organised by the Edo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Benin City.
According to Okpebholo, investigations have revealed that some local accomplices recruit criminal gangs from neighbouring states and other parts of the country, facilitate kidnap-for-ransom operations, and hand over victims to armed groups hiding in forest locations.
The governor lamented the growing involvement of residents in criminal activities directed against fellow citizens, warning that such actions pose a serious threat to public safety and the state’s development efforts.
He assured participants that his administration would sustain its crackdown on criminal networks and continue strengthening security architecture across Edo State.
Okpebholo also cautioned religious leaders against intervening on behalf of suspects arrested for criminal offences, stressing that anyone found guilty would be made to face the full consequences of the law.
The governor said his government would not tolerate interference in the prosecution of criminal cases, maintaining that justice must take its course irrespective of the status or influence of those involved.
“We will continue to pursue criminal elements relentlessly and ensure that Edo remains safe for law-abiding citizens,” he said.
Speaking at the conference, renowned cleric, David Abioye, urged ministers of the Gospel to uphold holiness, integrity and exemplary conduct in their personal and public lives.
Abioye emphasised the importance of avoiding adultery and other moral compromises, noting that spiritual leaders must remain worthy examples to their congregations and society.
The governor further reassured residents that security agencies operating in the state remain vigilant and are working round the clock to prevent criminal groups from establishing operational bases anywhere within Edo.
The latest warning comes amid growing concerns over kidnapping and violent crimes across several parts of Nigeria, where criminal gangs have increasingly targeted commuters, farmers, students and residents for ransom payments. Security analysts say the involvement of local informants often enables kidnappers to identify targets, monitor movements and evade law enforcement operations.
Observers believe that if the trend identified by the governor is not effectively curtailed, it could undermine investor confidence, disrupt economic activities and heighten insecurity in communities across Edo State.
However, sustained intelligence gathering, community cooperation and successful prosecution of offenders are expected to strengthen deterrence and support ongoing efforts to restore public confidence in the state’s security framework.
