The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has assured residents that his administration is taking “decisive steps” to rid the state of criminal elements and make it safe enough for farmers to return to their farms without fear.

The governor gave the assurance on Friday during the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) local government election campaign for Edo Central Senatorial District at the Uromi Town Hall, Esan North-East Local Government Area.

Describing security as a major priority, Okpebholo said his government will work with security agencies and stakeholders to protect lives and property while ensuring peace across the state.

“Governors are ready to fight insecurity across the nation. The perpetrators will be exposed, and they will run away from the country. In Edo State, there will be security, and our farmers will be able to return to their farms,” he said.

The governor stressed that kidnappers and bandits would not find a haven in Edo.

“I am serious with the fight against insecurity. By the time we execute one, two, three, and more of these criminals, others will run away from Edo State,” he stated, adding that perpetrators would face the full weight of the law.

Okpebholo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting Edo’s development, particularly through the implementation of local government autonomy.

“The President loves Edo State. When I met him, he told me not to touch local government funds, and I obeyed. The funds go directly to the local governments, and the chairmen are using them to bring development and growth across the 18 local government areas,” the governor said.

The governor urged APC members to mobilise for the July 11, 2026, local government elections, describing the polls as a foundation for the party’s preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In his address, former Governor of Edo, Adams Oshiomhole, told candidates that winning must be followed by grassroots development. He also thanked President Tinubu for granting LG autonomy.

On his part, the Edo APC Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, welcomed defectors and urged unity behind the governor.

“It will show that we are ready for the general election, where we have promised the President 2.5 million votes, which is achievable,” Tenebe said.

Meanwhile, the deputy chairman of the APC in Edo, Sylvester Aigboboh, listed the administration’s achievements as including 300km of roads completed, 68 healthcare centres built, 50 CNG buses for the 18 LGAs, and increased funding for Ambrose Alli University, Edo University Iyamho, Edo State Polytechnic Usen, and the College of Education, Igueben.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, former PDP senatorial chairman Anthony Okosun pledged support for the APC administration’s vision of building a “new Edo State”.

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