… Vows cultism-style sanctions, expands anti-crime offensive
BENIN CITY – The Edo State Government has declared an all-out offensive against internet fraudsters, popularly known as “Yahoo boys,” warning that they will now face the same stiff sanctions and security measures currently deployed against cultists and kidnappers across the state.
The government said the move forms part of a broader strategy to stamp out criminality, restore public confidence and protect the image of the state from activities capable of breeding insecurity and lawlessness.
The State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, made the declaration on Tuesday while briefing journalists in Benin City during the state government’s regular media engagement.
Afegbua said the administration of Monday Okpebholo would no longer tolerate internet fraud-related crimes, particularly as emerging evidence suggested that some criminal elements were using cybercrime as a cover for violent activities.
He cited the recent killing at the main gate of the University of Benin as a troubling example, noting that reports linked the incident to disagreements over proceeds allegedly generated from internet fraud.
Describing the development as disturbing and unacceptable, the commissioner stressed that the government would intensify surveillance and enforcement against cybercrime-related activities in the same manner cultism has been aggressively confronted.
“Edo people must understand that our zero tolerance for cultism remains fully in force, and no amount of pressure or persuasion will make us retreat from that commitment,” Afegbua declared.
“We are now extending that same attention to Yahoo Yahoo because, as cultism is being tackled head-on, some individuals are increasingly using internet fraud as a platform to perpetrate violence and criminal acts. What happened at the University of Benin Main Gate is a clear example,” he added.
He maintained that Governor Okpebholo remained resolute in restoring law and order, insisting that criticism from any quarter would not weaken the administration’s resolve to rid the state of criminal networks.
According to him, although challenges still exist, residents could attest to noticeable improvements in security, with cult-related violence significantly reduced in many communities despite isolated kidnapping incidents in some areas.
“We are determined to sustain this momentum and ensure these criminal tendencies are nipped in the bud. While the fight may not yet be over, Edo has become relatively more peaceful,” he said.
Afegbua also unveiled measures aimed at easing transportation challenges in the state, announcing that the government had acquired 50 high-capacity 52-seater buses powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), with another batch of 50 expected soon.
He explained that the buses would be distributed across the three senatorial districts to improve mobility, reduce transportation stress and enhance commuter safety within and outside major urban centres.
The commissioner further urged residents to refrain from indiscriminate refuse disposal in drains and waterways, warning that blocked drainage systems could worsen flooding, particularly following recent flood alerts issued across parts of the country.