By John Attah
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has praised the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu, for what he described as significant improvements in security across the state, particularly the reduction in kidnapping and the restoration of peace in previously troubled communities.
Okpebholo attributed the improvement to the support his administration has received from the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, declaring that residents of communities once gripped by fear could now return to their normal activities.
The governor spoke on Friday when he received Shaibu, who was on a courtesy visit to the Edo State Government House in Benin City.
The Army Chief said he was in the state to attend several military functions and inspect projects aimed at improving the welfare and operational effectiveness of officers and soldiers.
Commending Shaibu for his commitment to Edo State, Okpebholo particularly highlighted the establishment and siting of the Nigerian Army’s 83 Division in the state, as well as the contributions of the Commander of the Army’s 4 Brigade.
He described the military support as a major boost to his administration’s security efforts.
“I think there is something special between you and Edo, because since you came into office, you have specially paid attention to things about Edo, most especially the 83 Division that is coming to our state,” the governor said.
Endorsing Army’s contribution, Okpebholo singled out the Brigade Commander of the 4 Brigade, describing his deployment to Edo as one of the most significant developments for his administration.
“Let me tell you, the best gift that you have given me is the Brigade Commander that you brought to Edo.
“Since I became the governor, his coming is like a comfort to me, because today, nobody is talking about kidnapping in our state,” he declared.
The governor recalled the period when residents of Ekpoma in Esan West Local Government Area could hardly sleep peacefully because of persistent security threats.
He, however, said the situation had changed considerably, with residents now enjoying greater freedom of movement and returning to their farms.
“As I speak to you, Ekpoma is in peace. People can now go to their farms,” Okpebholo said.
He also identified Okpella in Etsako East Local Government Area as another community that had experienced serious security challenges, noting that the intervention of security agencies had helped restore peace and stability.
The governor expressed satisfaction with the military’s continued collaboration with his administration, describing the Brigade Commander as a committed officer willing to work for the safety and welfare of the people.
“There is nothing he is not doing to restore peace across the state. I am happy working with him. He is someone that is ready to work for the people and ready to serve,” he added.
Okpebholo’s commendation comes amid continued efforts by security agencies to tackle kidnapping and other security threats in Edo State, particularly in communities that have experienced attacks and disruptions to farming and commercial activities.
