According to a report by The Sun News on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has alleged that criminal activities in the state are increasingly being fueled by individuals recruited from outside Edo State. He stated that these external actors are often brought in by local collaborators who coordinate kidnapping operations and other criminal activities within the state.
Speaking at the 2026 Ministers’ Conference organized by the Edo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Benin City, the governor addressed concerns over the security situation in Edo. He explained that some residents work with criminal networks by recruiting individuals from other parts of the country to carry out kidnappings. According to him, victims are often abducted and then handed over to armed groups stationed in forests and remote areas where they are held while ransom negotiations take place.
Okpebholo also criticized what he described as the spread of false information regarding security incidents in the state. He argued that many reports circulating on social media are intentionally designed to create panic and tarnish the image of his administration. To illustrate his point, he recalled receiving a report about an alleged security incident along Sapele Road. However, after security personnel were dispatched to investigate, authorities reportedly found that no such incident had occurred.
The governor further expressed concern over the lifestyles of some individuals allegedly involved in criminal activities. He claimed that some suspects acquire luxury vehicles and build expensive homes while misleading the public into believing that their wealth comes from internet fraud, commonly known as “Yahoo Yahoo.”
While acknowledging that security challenges still exist in Edo State, the governor insisted that the situation is frequently exaggerated by political opponents seeking to discredit his government. He assured residents that security agencies remain committed to preventing criminal groups from establishing strong-term operations within the state.
Okpebholo also called on citizens and religious leaders to pray for President Bola Tinubu. He noted that although the removal of fuel subsidies has created economic hardship for many Nigerians, the policy was necessary and is beginning to produce developmental gains in Edo State.
Religious leaders at the event commended the governor’s engagement with faith-based organizations. Among them, Margaret Agbonifo praised his commitment to governance and prayed for a successful tenure, while Alfred Agbonlahor acknowledged ongoing infrastructure projects, including rehabilitation work on the Benin–Sapele Road, and expressed appreciation for the administration’s efforts.
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