Edo State Authorities Caution Secret Societies Over July 7 Commemorations, Advise Entrepreneurs to Fit Security Cameras

The Edo State Government has issued a stern warning to individuals involved in cult-related activities, cautioning them against organizing any celebrations or gatherings associated with July 7, as part of a broader effort to bolster security across the state.

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Meanwhile, business owners have been urged to install Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras at their premises, a move aimed at strengthening security measures and supporting law enforcement efforts in combating crime.

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Noah Idemudia, the spokesman for the Edo State Security Squad, codenamed Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultism, made the announcement on Monday while parading two suspects arrested in separate operations in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, and Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area.

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The two suspects, identified as Muhammed Oakumhe and Omukoro Aghogho, were apprehended with two pump-action guns by a security team led by the Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo, following actionable intelligence gathered by security agencies.

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According to Idemudia, security agencies will not tolerate any activities that threaten public peace, and he warned those planning unlawful gatherings or activities on July 7 to abandon such plans, as security operatives will take swift action against anyone found violating the law.

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Idemudia explicitly cautioned individuals involved in criminal activities in Edo State to desist from such behavior, stating that anyone caught engaging in unlawful activities will face the full consequences of the law.

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A deadline of July 31 has been set for business owners to install CCTV cameras at their premises, with enforcement slated to begin after the deadline, as part of an initiative to improve surveillance and support law enforcement efforts in tackling crime.

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Idemudia advised business owners to comply with the directive, noting that the Governor has mandated the installation of CCTV cameras at all business premises by August 1, a move expected to significantly enhance security and make Edo a safer place.

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The security committee is set to collaborate with traditional institutions to profile community youth leaders, aligning with ongoing efforts to bolster grassroots security across the state.