Politics
SEN. Joseph Ikpea, representing Edo Central District, has thrown his weight behind Gov. Monday Okpebholo’s proposal to establish a speedy trial process for kidnap and cultism suspects in Edo
Ikpea’s stance is contained in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Benin, on Friday.
He commended the governor for the recent crackdown on kidnap syndicates operating in the state.
He particularly hailed Wednesday’s operation that led to the rescue of a woman kidnapped on Sunday at the popular Benin Airport Road Vegetable Market, and the arrest of one member of the gang.
NAN recalls that the Edo Police Command, alongside the governor, on Thursday, paraded suspected kidnappers, including one of those involved in the Vegetable Market incident.
During the parade, the governor announced plans to facilitate the creation of a special court that would conclude the trial of kidnap and cultism suspects in two weeks.
He also pledged to sign their death warrants and ensure their public execution at the Ring Road Roundabout in Benin, the state capital.
Meanwhile, Okpebholo has announced a financial reward of N10 million to the police command, in appreciation of their “dexterity” in arresting the Vegetable Market kidnap suspects.
Reacting to the development, the lawmaker praised the governor’s support for security agencies and their efforts towards curbing insecurity in the state.
According to him, Okpebholo’s gesture to Edo police, after Sunday’s Vegetable Market kidnap, which led to the victim’s rescue and a gang member’s arrest, is commendable.
The senator added that the governor’s swift action “is a clear signal to criminal elements around the state that nowhere is safe for them and a huge confidence booster for the residents that they are safe.
“As the senator representing Edo Central, I reaffirm my support and determination to collaborate with the State Government in ensuring that Edo Central is safe,” Ikpea stated.
He further pledged to work with his fellow senators from the other districts to partner the State Government on security matters across the state.
Ikpea also reiterated his call on the indigenes and residents to make security part of their civic responsibility.
“When everyone is involved in the business of security, all the bad elements in the state will either repent or relocate as they would have realised that Edo is no safe haven to criminals,” he added. (NAN)
A.I
June 20, 2026
Tags: Gov. Monday Okpebholo Sen. Joseph Ikpea