Okpebholo denounces Edo abduction, directs police investigation

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has strongly denounced the kidnapping incident that occurred on Sunday at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road, Benin City, labeling it an unacceptable assault on innocent residents of the state.

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In response to the incident, the governor, through his media aide, Patrick Ebojele, issued a statement on Monday, directing the Edo State Commissioner of Police to launch a swift and coordinated investigation into the matter, with the primary goal of rescuing the victims and apprehending those responsible.

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The governor emphasized that the state government will not condone any actions that compromise public safety and security or disrupt the peace in the state, as he condemned the kidnapping in unequivocal terms.

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Okpebholo explicitly stated, "I strongly condemn this act of kidnapping and I call on the Commissioner of Police to immediately open an investigation into the matter, while also asserting that the government will not tolerate any acts that threaten public safety and security or disturb the state's peace.

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The governor urged residents of Benin City and the entire Edo state to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station, highlighting the importance of timely information in supporting ongoing police operations.

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Okpebholo reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring that those responsible for the kidnapping are apprehended and held accountable, with the state government pursuing the matter until justice is served.

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A report by The PUNCH revealed that a woman was kidnapped while shopping at one of the stores in the Vegetable market, with the incident captured in a video.