Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has vowed to ensure that those responsible for the February 21 killings in seven communities of Ovia South West Local Government Area are brought to justice. He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring lasting peace and security in the area.

In a statement, Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Fred Itua, said Governor Okpebholo made the vow during an on-the-spot assessment visit to the affected communities. Itua stated that the Governor pledged to facilitate the establishment of a police outpost to prevent future attacks and enhance security. “From the testimonies I have heard and the investigations conducted, these are criminals who invade your farms to steal the crops you have laboured for. As a Government, we will go after them. I assure you that you will live here in peace. Our actions will prove that lasting peace is coming,” Governor Okpebholo declared.

Itua said the Governor urged the residents to remain calm and not take the law into their hands, assuring them of Government intervention. “I understand your pain, but I urge you to take heart. Do not fight anyone or resort to violence. Maintain the peace as you have been doing. I assure you that we will work here so you can feel the presence of the government and experience real development,” Governor Okpebholo stated.

Fred Itua noted that Governor Okpebholo also met with leaders and members of Gbelebe, a neighbouring Ijaw community, where he sued for harmony and assured them of government support. “My core mission as Governor is to restore peace and bring development. Without peace, there can be no progress. These killings and conflicts must stop,” Governor Okpebholo assured.

Itua stated that leaders from Madoti and Gbelebe communities recounted that the crisis erupted when hoodlums attempted to steal farm produce from farmers in Madoti’s farm settlements but were confronted by a newly formed local vigilante group. They lamented the long-standing menace of farm theft and pleaded with the Governor to intensify efforts in protecting lives and property, ensuring that farmers could work without fear of attacks, Itua said.