Edo Government Press Statement Causes Confusion Over Status of Edo Security Network

Two weeks into his tenure, newly sworn-in Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has come under scrutiny after a statement from his office caused confusion over the status of the Edo State Security Network.

On Friday, Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary, announced that the governor had lifted the suspension imposed on the security outfit by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) before the September 21 governorship election.

However, it was immediately revealed that the suspension had already been lifted by the previous administration on October 7 during a security council meeting held at Government House.

At the time, former Governor Godwin Obaseki had clarified, “The IG was clear; people who are not part of the national security structure cannot take part in elections. Now that the election is over, as Governor and Chief Security Officer of Edo State I have directed that the vigilante corps will immediately resume their beats according to the law.”

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The conflicting statement has drawn criticism from analysts and security experts, who argue it demonstrates a lack of coordination within the new administration.

Security Challenges Persist

Since the inauguration of the new government, Edo State has experienced a wave of cult-related violence and criminal attacks. Security experts have questioned why the state’s security corps had not been immediately mobilized to address these challenges.

Bright Amadi, a Benin-based security consultant, described the situation as troubling. “Knowing the status of the state’s own security network should have been a top priority, especially given the rising insecurity,” he said.

Policy Reversals Spark Criticism

This latest incident follows another policy misstep earlier in the week when the governor announced free bus services across the state. The policy, initially welcomed by the public, was withdrawn less than 24 hours later after operators of the Edo City Transport Service reportedly informed the government that the directive was impractical and unsustainable.

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The backtracking has fuelled concerns about the administration’s decision-making processes.

Political Reactions

Opposition figures have also weighed in on the issue. Barrister Anthony Ehilebo, a PDP chieftain from Igueben, criticized the administration’s handling of security policy, describing it as indicative of a lack of preparation.

“Government is supposed to be a continuum,” Ehilebo said. “Isn’t it surprising that the new administration seems unaware of existing policies? Playing politics with the Edo State Security Network during the campaign by labelling it Obaseki’s private army has now backfired, as rising insecurity and the unacceptable loss of lives has forced the APC’s interim governor to rely on the same structure.”

Ehilebo also took aim at the administration’s perceived lack of focus. “Instead of doing the hard work of governance, they are preoccupied with photo-ops and witch hunts. This interim government, as it is now called in Edo, has proven already to be a confused calamity. Thankfully, we have approached the courts, and we believe the judiciary will save Edo State from this six-month APC misadventure.”

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Analysts Urge Strategic Caution

As the Okpebholo administration navigates its early days, analysts have emphasized the need for strategic planning and clear communication to avoid further missteps.

“Leadership is not about quick wins but about carefully thought-out decisions that prioritize the welfare of the people,” Amadi said. “Edo State needs urgent attention to security and governance, and there’s no room for trial and error.”

Source: Legit.ng