Okpebholo promises five-minute response to security threats in Edo

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has pledged to strengthen the state’s security architecture to ensure that security agencies can respond to threats within five minutes, regardless of where they occur.

Okpebholo made the commitment during a service at Living Faith Church, popularly known as Winners Chapel, on Sapele Road, Benin City, according to a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele.

The governor said his administration was working to make Edo safer within the coming month, particularly by improving the speed and effectiveness of responses to security emergencies.

“We will continue to work for Edo people. In terms of security, Edo will be safer in the next month. We will be able to respond to security threats in any part of the state within five minutes,” he said.

He disclosed that dedicated emergency telephone lines would soon be released to the public, urging residents to use them to report threats and seek immediate assistance when necessary.

Okpebholo said his administration remained focused on reducing kidnapping, armed robbery and other criminal activities, stressing that Edo must become safer than it was when he assumed office.

The governor also thanked members of Winners Chapel for their prayers and support, describing himself as a member of the church.

He said the administration would continue working to create an environment where residents could go about their daily activities and businesses without fear.

The church’s pastor, Emmanuel Ebiye, commended Okpebholo for what he described as his developmental efforts across the state.

Ebiye also expressed appreciation to the governor for providing food items, including rice and cooking oil, to churches for distribution among their members.

“We appreciate your transformation, development and growth experience across all sectors in the state. I pray for grace to be with you. Thank you for all you are doing for Edo people,” he said.

The governor later visited Rock of Ages Christian Assembly International, also on Sapele Road, where the General Overseer, Charles Osazuwa, expressed confidence that the 2027 general elections would be peaceful and Nigeria would remain united.

Osazuwa advised Nigerians to disregard what he described as predictions of doom about the country, arguing that elections would be conducted without threatening Nigeria’s continued existence as a nation.

He also encouraged Christians to develop skills and engage in productive activities that could strengthen the economy, while urging government at all levels to prioritise human capital development.

The cleric cited scholarships he received under the administrations of former Western Region Premier, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and former Bendel State Governor, Ambrose Alli, as examples of how investment in education could transform lives.

On infrastructure, Okpebholo said the procurement process for road projects across Edo was nearing completion, with construction expected to commence soon.

He specifically mentioned projects involving what he described as “mechanics and peanut roads,” adding that contractors would be required to continue construction during the rainy season to speed up delivery.

The governor also said his administration was recording progress in its efforts to tackle insecurity.

He called on residents to continue praying for President Bola Tinubu, particularly over the removal of the fuel subsidy, which he said had contributed to increased investment in road infrastructure nationwide.