**Okpebholo orders security agencies to intensify efforts against criminals

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has taken a firm stance against criminal activities, particularly cultism, declaring that Edo must remain safe for all residents—except criminals.
The governor made the declaration during a security meeting with heads of various security agencies on Monday evening, following a surge in violent crime and killings linked to cult activities across the state.

In his address, Governor Okpebholo condemned the increasing criminality, emphasizing that his administration would not tolerate lawlessness in any form. “Edo State will be a place of safety for our law-abiding citizens. Criminals have no place here, and we are taking decisive steps to ensure that law and order are restored across the state,” he declared.

The governor ordered security agencies to ramp up patrols, focus on dismantling cult groups, and take all necessary measures to protect communities from the menace of violence and criminal activities. He also assured the public that his government would provide full support to the security forces to ensure their operations are successful.

Governor Okpebholo further called for the collaboration of Edo residents, urging them to report any suspicious activities to the authorities. He stressed that the fight against crime is a collective responsibility and that the government cannot succeed without public cooperation.

The announcement has been met with widespread approval, as citizens and community leaders expressed confidence that the governor’s strong leadership would restore peace and security in the state.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has inaugurated Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole as the new Commissioner for Health, tasking him with the responsibility of transforming the state’s healthcare system.

The ceremony, held at the Executive Chambers of Government House in Benin City, was attended by prominent state officials, including Deputy Governor Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Secretary to the State Government Alhaji Musa Ikhilor, Chief of Staff Mr. Gani Audu, Head of Service Anthony Okungbowa, and various Permanent Secretaries.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua quoted him to have highlighted the critical challenges confronting the health sector and therefore emphasized the urgency of addressing them.
He assured the new Commissioner of his administration’s unwavering support to ensure the delivery of quality healthcare services to Edo residents.

“You are stepping into a sector with significant challenges, but with determination and innovation, we can transform healthcare delivery in Edo State. “The people are counting on us to provide efficient and accessible medical services.
“This is a call to action, and I trust you will rise to the occasion,” the Governor stated.

Responding, Dr. Oshiomhole expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged his commitment to improving the state’s healthcare system.

“I am deeply honored by this trust and will bring my expertise and dedication to ensure Edo State achieves a robust and sustainable healthcare sector.
“I am committed to working in line with the law and the vision of this administration to provide quality health services for our people,” he assured.

In a bid to resolve the ongoing Oke-Oroma land dispute, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced the formation of a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the matter thoroughly.

Governor Okpebholo made the announcement during a meeting with community leaders, residents, and those affected by the demolition of properties in the Oke-Oroma community, located in Benin City, the state capital.
Accompanied by his Deputy, Honourable Dennis Idahosa, the Governor expressed his commitment to ensuring justice for the people of Oke-Oroma.

“I made a promise to you during my campaign, and today, I am fulfilling that promise. We will not allow injustice to prevail under this administration. We are here to listen to your concerns and take necessary actions to address them,” Governor Okpebholo stated.
The chief press secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, in a statement issued on Tuesday quoted him to have assured the community that the Commission of Inquiry would investigate the claims surrounding the disputed land and make recommendations based on the findings. He also emphasized that should the inquiry confirm that the lands rightfully belong to the community, any Certificates of Occupancy (CofO) issued to other individuals would be revoked and the land returned to its rightful owners.
“Peace and security are paramount to this government. I will ensure that the appropriate security forces are deployed to restore peace to the area,” the Governor added, calling on the people to maintain peace while the investigation is carried out.
The Governor also promised to invite representatives from the affected communities to the Government House for further discussions, as part of his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability in handling the issue.
The announcement was welcomed by many in the community, who have been seeking a resolution to the land dispute for years. With the formation of the Commission of Inquiry, the people of Oke-Oroma are hopeful that the issue will be addressed fairly and expeditiously.

The Governor’s intervention is a significant step toward resolving the long-standing conflict, and the Commission of Inquiry is expected to begin its work soon.