Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has condemned the recent wave of violence in the state, which has claimed at least 24 lives across different communities.
The first incident, which resulted in 22 deaths, erupted between cocoa farmers and suspected produce thieves in Gbelemotin, Ovia South-West Local Government Area. The violence escalated when sympathizers of the victims launched a retaliatory attack after the initial killings on Thursday night and Friday morning.
In a separate attack on Monday, two residents of Okpekpe community, Etsako East Local Government Area—identified as Batemue Philip Ebo and Christopher Bello—were reportedly killed by suspected herdsmen.
Reacting to the killings, the governor, through his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, reaffirmed the state government’s zero-tolerance policy for violence and vowed to ensure justice for the victims.
“We will not tolerate any form of violence or lawlessness in Edo State. We will work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible for these heinous acts are brought to justice,” the statement read.
Governor Okpebholo also ordered the immediate deployment of additional security personnel to the affected areas and pledged support for affected communities.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. We will work closely with security agencies, traditional leaders, and community members to restore peace,” he added.
