We Feel Safe Again+ Edo Residents Commend Gov. Okpebholo Over Security Promise Kept

We Feel Safe Again+ Edo Residents Commend Gov. Okpebholo Over Security Promise Kept

By Rasak Zekeri 

A sense of relief is sweeping across Edo State as residents say they are beginning to “breathe easy” again, following Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo’s decisive move to strengthen security with the induction of 500 newly trained Forest Guards.

For many Edo people who have lived in fear of kidnapping and attacks in forests and rural communities, the Governor’s action is being described as a promise fulfilled.

At the passing-out ceremony held in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Musa Yakubu, reaffirmed his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on crime. 

“We are making Edo State uncomfortable for criminals and their accomplices. Security of lives and property remains the number one priority of this government,” he declared.

The 500 Forest Guards, trained under the Federal Government initiative spearheaded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, are expected to be deployed immediately across the state’s forest reserves and flashpoints. Governor Okpebholo also assured them of prompt welfare packages to enable them carry out their duties effectively.

The Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Hon. Festus Ebea, said the integration of the Forest Guards into Edo’s security architecture sends a clear message to criminals: “Your only option now is to relocate from Edo State.”

He commended the Governor for keying into the Federal Government’s Forest Guards programme without delay, noting that it demonstrates political will and responsiveness to the people’s yearnings.

A representative of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, described the initiative as one of the Federal Government’s strategic approaches to tackling insecurity nationwide, and lauded Edo for being proactive in its implementation.

For residents, the development could not have come at a better time.

“We have been crying out about kidnappers hiding in our forests. Now that the Governor has recruited and deployed these guards, we believe our farms, roads and communities will be safer,” said Mrs. Agnes Igbinoba, a trader in Benin.

Another resident, Mr. Collins Omo, a commercial driver, said: “This is what we voted for. Action, not talk. With 500 trained men on ground, we can travel and do business without looking over our shoulders.”

The ceremony featured a display of skills by the trainees, presentation of awards to outstanding guards, and the administration of the Oath of Allegiance by the State Attorney General, Prof. Roland Otaro. Letters of appointment were also issued to the new personnel.

Stakeholders say the induction marks a turning point in Edo’s security drive. They note that by prioritizing grassroots security and collaborating with federal structures, the Okpebholo administration is rebuilding public confidence.

As the Forest Guards begin deployment, Edo people say the Governor has shown that his promise to restore safety was not mere rhetoric. 

For now, the message on the streets of Benin, Auchi, Ekpoma and beyond is simple: “Governor Okpebholo kept his word. Edo feels safe again.”