Razak Zekeri Lauds Governor Okpebholo’s Security Drive, Urges Investment in Tech-Driven Command Centres Across Edo

Razak Zekeri Lauds Governor Okpebholo’s Security Drive, Urges Investment in Tech-Driven Command Centres Across Edo

Falmata Ibrahim 

The Senior Special Assistant to the Edo State Governor on Public Affairs, Comrade Razak Zekeri, has commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for prioritizing citizen safety and laying the groundwork for a more secure Edo State.

In his monthly opinion column on ,Sustainable Security in Edo State, Zekeri, an internationally exposed Esan son who has visited over 10 European countries, said one clear lesson from developed nations is that security must come before economic growth and other forms of development.

The SSA applauded the administration’s establishment of special courts to fast-track the prosecution of kidnapping and other violent crimes. He described the initiative as a “good step” that signals government’s seriousness about tackling insecurity.

“However, the special courts represent only about 10% of what a truly effective security system should be,” Zekeri stated. “To build a lasting safe haven for our people, we must complement legal action with modern security infrastructure.”

Zekeri advised Governor Okpebholo to invest in a fully digital, modern, and well-equipped security technology architecture across the state.

Specifically, he proposed the construction of an ,Augustus Aikhomu Command and Control Centre_ in Irrua, Central Edo, to strengthen coverage beyond Benin City. He noted that the _Solomon Arase Command and Control Centre* in Benin already exists and should be fully operationalized and upgraded with more advanced technology. He also recommended establishing a third Command and Control Centre in Edo North to ensure statewide reach.

“Where is the money? A very good question, sir. Fund it from your security vote,” he said, stressing that security spending is an investment, not a cost.

According to him, when these centres are backed by a well-equipped and highly trained Edo State Security Corps, the state will be better positioned to prevent crime, respond swiftly to emergencies, and sustain peace.

Zekeri argued that a secure Edo is the foundation for prosperity. “A safe Edo State will attract more investment, create more jobs, boost tourism, and significantly improve the quality of life for every citizen,” he said.

He urged the Okpebholo administration to make technology-driven security the next major pillar of its governance agenda, to consolidate the gains already recorded and make Edo a model of safety in Nigeria.