By Ogochukwu Isioma
The Edo State Government has intensified security operations across major highways and communities following the circulation of a viral video allegedly featuring a self-acclaimed bandit issuing threats around Ekpoma and neighbouring areas in Edo Central Senatorial District.
The viral video, circulated on Tuesday, triggered widespread concern across social media.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Fred Itua, said the government was aware of the video and had taken decisive action to reassure the public and reinforce ongoing security efforts.
According to the statement, “The attention of Edo State Government has been drawn to a trending video circulating on social media, allegedly featuring a self-acclaimed bandit issuing threats and claiming presence around Ekpoma and adjoining communities in Edo Central Senatorial District.”
Mr. Itua noted that Governor Monday Okpebholo had been fully briefed on the matter and immediately convened a high-level security meeting. He said security has remained a top priority since the Governor assumed office.
The statement added, “Since assuming office, Governor Okpebholo has treated security as a top-tier priority and has not left any stone unturned in confronting emerging threats.”
The Chief Press Secretary disclosed that over recent weeks, the Governor has held continuous strategic briefings and activated a State-wide surveillance network covering major corridors such as the Benin Auchi Expressway, Ekpoma Uromi Road, Ehor Iruekpen axis, Benin Bypass, the Ewu Irrua Ubiaja route, and the Benin Afuze Auchi corridor.
These efforts, the government explained, are aimed at ensuring early detection of threats, enabling swift responses, and sustaining pressure on criminal networks that may attempt to infiltrate the State.
“These measures are designed to ensure early detection, swift response, and sustained pressure against criminal networks,” Mr. Itua added.
Following the Governor’s latest directive, multiple security formations have launched intensified operations across forests, boundary communities and other flashpoints. These include the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, local vigilante groups, and the Edo State Special Security Squad.
Search-and-comb operations are now underway with enhanced intelligence gathering and coordinated patrols to dismantle any criminal activities within the State. The government also confirmed that arrests linked to recent security breaches have already been made.
“Search-and-comb missions are ongoing, backed by enhanced intelligence gathering and coordinated patrols to deny criminal elements safe haven anywhere within the State,” the statement said.
It further revealed that significant breakthroughs have been recorded, with several leads still being pursued. Officials emphasised that the security operations will continue indefinitely until all parts of Edo State are secure.
The government assured the public of its unwavering commitment, saying, “The Government reiterates that these operations are continuous and will not cease until every inch of Edo land; urban centres, rural communities, and transit corridors are fully secured and safe for residents, commuters, and investors.”
Citizens were urged to stay calm, cooperate with security agencies and avoid spreading unverified information that could incite panic. The government stressed that misinformation could undermine ongoing operations.
The statement added, “Misinformation, panic-driven narratives, and unverified videos should be avoided.”
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his determination to keep the State safe, insisting that criminality would find no foothold under his administration.
“Governor Okpebholo remains resolute in his commitment to safeguarding lives and property, and his administration will continue to deploy all lawful measures to ensure that criminality has no breathing space in Edo State,” Mr Itua concluded.
