Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has called for stronger collaboration between his administration and traditional rulers across the state’s 18 local government areas as part of efforts to combat insecurity and other criminal activities.
The governor stressed that the fight against crime requires the collective participation of government, traditional institutions, security agencies, and local communities, noting that traditional rulers remain indispensable partners in maintaining peace and safeguarding lives and property.
Furthermore, he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening community-based security initiatives aimed at improving public safety throughout the state.
Traditional Rulers Recognised as Key Stakeholders
Governor Okpebholo acknowledged the strategic role traditional rulers play in preserving peace within their respective domains.
Furthermore, he noted that their closeness to local communities places them in a unique position to identify emerging security threats, encourage peaceful coexistence, and support intelligence gathering.
According to the governor, effective security management begins at the grassroots level where traditional institutions remain highly respected.
Community leadership strengthens local security.
Collective Action Against Crime
The governor emphasised that insecurity cannot be addressed by government alone.
Furthermore, he urged traditional rulers to work closely with security agencies by encouraging residents to provide timely and credible information capable of preventing criminal activities before they escalate.
He maintained that stronger cooperation among all stakeholders would significantly improve the state’s security architecture.
Shared responsibility promotes safer communities.
Protecting Lives and Property
Governor Okpebholo reiterated that the protection of lives and property remains one of the primary responsibilities of his administration.
Furthermore, the state government continues implementing measures designed to improve security operations while supporting law enforcement agencies with the resources required to perform their duties effectively.
He assured residents that government would remain committed to creating a peaceful environment conducive to development.
Security remains fundamental to progress.
Strengthening Community Policing
The governor highlighted the importance of community participation in maintaining law and order.
Furthermore, he encouraged greater collaboration between local communities, traditional rulers, vigilante groups, and formal security agencies to strengthen community policing efforts across the state.
Local intelligence, he noted, often provides valuable support for effective security operations.
Community engagement enhances crime prevention.
Addressing Criminal Activities
Governor Okpebholo expressed concern over various criminal activities affecting communities, including kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, and other violent crimes.
Furthermore, he stated that the government would continue working with relevant security agencies to ensure that criminal elements are identified, apprehended, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
He stressed that no effort would be spared in protecting the people of Edo State.
Law enforcement strengthens public confidence.
Promoting Peaceful Communities
The governor urged traditional rulers to continue promoting dialogue, unity, and peaceful coexistence among residents.
Furthermore, community harmony reduces the likelihood of conflicts while creating an environment where development projects and economic activities can flourish.
He noted that peace remains the foundation upon which sustainable development is built.
Peace supports prosperity.
Government’s Commitment to Security
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s determination to continue investing in security initiatives across Edo State.
Furthermore, the government will sustain collaboration with security agencies, traditional institutions, local governments, and community leaders to improve surveillance, strengthen intelligence gathering, and enhance rapid response to security threats.
The administration remains focused on delivering lasting peace for all residents.
Building a Safer Edo State
Governor Monday Okpebholo’s call for stronger collaboration with traditional rulers reflects his administration’s commitment to adopting a comprehensive approach to tackling insecurity across Edo State.
Furthermore, by strengthening partnerships between government, traditional institutions, security agencies, and local communities, the state aims to reduce criminal activities, improve intelligence sharing, protect lives and property, and create a safer environment that supports economic growth, social stability, and sustainable development across all 18 local government areas.
