Okpebholo cautions citizens against hiring thugs to wreak havoc in Edo.

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, issued a stern warning to residents on Wednesday, cautioning them against recruiting external criminals to carry out kidnappings and violent crimes within the state, as this undermines efforts to boost security.

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This warning was given during the 2026 Ministers’ Conference, hosted by the Edo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Benin City, where Okpebholo addressed participants.

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Okpebholo acknowledged that insecurity remains a pressing concern in the state, but claimed that certain individuals are intentionally exaggerating incidents and disseminating false information on social media to tarnish his administration's reputation.

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According to the governor, security agency investigations have uncovered that local collaborators are facilitating various criminal activities in the state by recruiting armed gangs from outside Edo to perpetrate kidnappings and other crimes.

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Okpebholo expressed dismay, stating, "Do you know one painful thing? Our people are now going outside Edo to recruit criminals to help them do the job, they will kidnap somebody and hand the victim over to them in the bush."

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The governor voiced concern over the increasing involvement of local accomplices in criminal operations, noting that some individuals suddenly acquire wealth without any visible means of livelihood, often attributing it to being "Yahoo boys".

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He observed that these individuals will often be seen driving expensive cars and building houses, prompting questions about the source of their wealth, which they will claim is from being "Yahoo boys".

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Okpebholo urged religious leaders not to intervene in the prosecution of arrested individuals, emphasizing that his administration will not tolerate any attempts to shield suspects from justice, saying "Pastors, if you hear that I have arrested somebody, don’t come to beg me".

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The governor acknowledged that Edo is not entirely free of security challenges, but maintained that the situation is being overstated by political opponents seeking to discredit his government, stating "All of this is just to bring this government down, to give it a bad name".

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He assured residents that security agencies are working tirelessly to tackle criminality and prevent armed groups from establishing a foothold in the state, while also acknowledging that the situation is not as severe as being reported.

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Okpebholo also called for prayers for President Bola Tinubu, arguing that the removal of fuel subsidy, despite its immediate hardship, has created opportunities for development across the country, including Edo State.

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Pastor Margaret Agbonifo commended the governor for his commitment to faith and public service, praying that he would complete his tenure successfully and leave the state better than he met it.

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Rev. Alfred Agbonlahor, the Vice Chairman of CAN in Edo State, praised the governor for the ongoing rehabilitation works on the Benin-Sapele Road.

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Edo State has witnessed a series of kidnapping incidents and security challenges in recent years, particularly along major highways and rural communities.

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In response to these challenges, the state government has strengthened collaboration with security agencies, vigilante groups, and community leaders to curb criminal activities.