In a strong move to improve safety and security in Edo Central Senatorial District, Governor Monday Okpebholo has handed over 10 brand new patrol vehicles to security agencies operating across the district.
The presentation, which took place in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, brought together traditional rulers from Esanland, security operatives, political leaders and community representatives. It was part of the governor’s ongoing efforts to engage directly with security stakeholders and address the real challenges they face on the ground.
Speaking at the event, Governor Okpebholo made it clear that his administration has zero tolerance for crime and criminality. He described the distribution of the vehicles as a strategic move, not a symbolic one, aimed at improving response time and strengthening security operations across communities.
“This is not just about handing over vehicles. It is about understanding what our security personnel are facing and responding directly. Security is the foundation of development, and we will not compromise the safety of our people,” the governor said.
He also stressed the need for cooperation at the local government level, noting that members of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), hunters and anti-cultism units must be properly profiled and documented to be enlisted on the government payroll and begin receiving salaries across all 18 local government areas.
Governor Okpebholo further revealed that his administration had earlier set up a committee that trained 2,500 security corps members. According to him, these personnel will be integrated with existing ESSC members and deployed across the state, ensuring that each local government has over 300 security operatives.
During an interactive session, representatives from Esan North East, Esan West, Esan Central, Esan South East, Igueben, the Esan Hunters Association and the Anti-Cultism Unit raised concerns ranging from lack of equipment and logistics to herdsmen-related security threats, intelligence gaps and poor communication tools.
Director of Operations of the Edo State Security Corps, Mr. Richard Balogun, announced that the government has now approved salaries for security operatives, bringing relief to officers who have worked for months under difficult and risky conditions. He praised the state government for prioritising both welfare and logistics.
“This shows that the government values the sacrifices of our men and women. Better welfare and equipment will greatly improve our effectiveness,” Balogun said.
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Edo Central APC Senatorial Leader, Major General Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd), called on the government to sustain the momentum through continuous funding, intelligence support and logistics. He also urged traditional rulers and community leaders to remain vigilant by profiling suspicious individuals and vehicles entering their areas.
“Our communities must be the first line of defence. If we work together, criminals will have no hiding place,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the Enijie of Esanland, the Onojie of Uromi, His Royal Highness Anselm Aidenojie II, commended Governor Okpebholo’s practical and inclusive approach to tackling insecurity. He also revealed plans to establish an Esan Security Trust Fund, supported by traditional rulers and Esan leaders in the diaspora, to further strengthen security operations in Edo Central.
“Security is a collective responsibility. Our people deserve to sleep peacefully, knowing they are protected,” the monarch said.
