On Monday, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the executive Governor of Edo State has condemned the murder of a youth at the main gate of the University of Benin in very strong terms.
Patrick Ebojele, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor made this disclosure in a statement released on Monday.
”Governor Okpebholo extends his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the deceased, whose life was violently and senselessly cut short.
“The Edo State Police Command has commenced investigations into the incident, while security agencies are working round the clock to identify and apprehend all those responsible. They may run, but they cannot hide forever.
“Governor Okpebholo assures the public and the family of the victim that the case will not be swept under the rug. The perpetrators will be found and justice will be served.
“The governor reiterates his administration’s firm resolve to stamp out cultism in all its forms across Edo State. Since assuming office, his administration has taken deliberate and sustained steps to confront the cult menace head-on.
“These efforts include sustained security operations in cult-prone communities across the state, resulting in the arrest and prosecution of numerous suspected cultists; close collaboration between the Edo State Government and the Nigerian Police Force, the Department of State Services, and the Nigerian Army to disrupt and dismantle cult networks operating within the state; community engagement initiatives involving traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, and civil society organisations in the fight against cult violence; and strong support for the rehabilitation and reintegration of young persons vulnerable to cult recruitment, recognising that long-term peace requires both enforcement and prevention.
“The governor stated that these efforts are already yielding results. He noted that the murder of a young person in broad daylight is a grim reminder that the battle is far from over and that the government must continue to intensify its efforts.
“Edo State will not be a sanctuary for criminals. Those who carry arms and terrorise innocent people will face the full consequences of the law.”
“The Edo State Government remains fully committed to securing every community and every part of the state, so that no family will have to endure the pain of losing a loved one to senseless cult violence,”