Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has alleged that some residents are travelling to different parts of Nigeria to recruit criminals who are later used for kidnappings, armed robbery, and other criminal activities within the state.
He made the allegation while speaking at the 2026 Ministers’ Conference organised by the Edo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Benin City, where issues of insecurity were extensively discussed.
The governor also claimed that a number of reports circulating on social media about insecurity in the state are either false or exaggerated, noting that such misinformation is worsening public perception and security responses.
He recalled a recent incident along Sapele Road, explaining that he directed security operatives to respond immediately after receiving a distress report, only for it to later be confirmed as false. He said while insecurity remains a real challenge, false alarms are increasingly being used to discredit his administration.
Okpebholo further alleged that individuals involved in criminal activities often display unexplained wealth, claiming some attribute their riches to cybercrime. He also warned against interference in arrests, saying law enforcement should be allowed to carry out their duties without pressure.
The governor added that volunteers have been deployed in forest areas across the state to prevent criminals from using them as hideouts, stressing that the government remains committed to tackling insecurity despite challenges posed by misinformation and criminal networks.
Elijah Adeyemi
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