Obaseki orders reaccreditation of over 6,500 vigilante personnel to strengthen security

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has instructed the reaccreditation of over 6,500 members of the State’s Security Vigilante Network to fortify the security architecture. This decisive action aims to bolster the fight against criminal activities and safeguard the lives and properties of residents.

The governor unveiled this directive during a security briefing held at the Solomon Arase Command and Control Centre in Benin City. Assisted by top security chiefs in the state, Governor Obaseki reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to ensure the security of its people and collaborate closely with security agencies.

Highlighting the recent security challenges, particularly in Edo North, where criminal acts were perpetrated under the guise of a burial ceremony, Governor Obaseki emphasized that his administration will not tolerate any breakdown of law and order. He pledged to take appropriate measures to address the situation and hold those responsible accountable.

“We all are aware of the security challenges in the State this weekend, particularly in Edo North, where in the guise of burial some citizens resulted to arson and assault on security agencies in Oja Village.

“Government can’t fold its hands and allow a breakdown of law and order in the State as appropriate actions will be taken and we have resolved to deal with what happened last Saturday. We will not accept a situation where citizens attack members of the security agencies, it’s not acceptable. As a government, we will deal with those involved in the incident.” he stated.

Regarding the reaccreditation of the vigilante network, Governor Obaseki emphasized that only vigilante personnel who have received training from the Nigerian Police Training School, under the arrangement with the Edo State Government, will be permitted to serve in the state. The approximately 6,500 trained vigilantes are required to report to the Police Staff College for accreditation. Reiterating the significance of this move, the governor warned that individuals or groups acting as vigilantes without proper accreditation will face consequences.

Obaseki noted, “We heard some kidnappers took over a checkpoint and attacked some policemen on patrol, but none lost their lives in the incident and this has prompted the government to commence a total revamp of the vigilante structure.

“Commencing today, only the vigilante personnel trained in the Nigerian Police Training School under the arrangement with the Edo State Government will be allowed to serve in Edo State. All vigilante groups and persons trained so far, about 6,500 men, are required to report to the Police Staff College where they received training for accreditation. The commander will be issuing instructions on the specific dates for reaccreditation.”

Governor Obaseki aimed to assure potential investors that Edo State remains safe and secure for business activities. He acknowledged reports of certain individuals attempting to exploit crisis situations for political gain and affirmed that his administration will deal firmly with anyone who disrupts the state’s security.

Furthermore, the governor highlighted the establishment of a fully manned Command and Control Centre and activated security emergency numbers to promptly respond to any distress calls or security breaches.

The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Funsho Adegboye, announced the collaboration between the state government and the Inspector General of Police to deploy approximately 4,000 policemen to maintain peace and promote development in the state.

Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Oduyebo, Commander of the 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, pledged continuous support and collaboration with other security agencies to ensure the safety and security of the people.