The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Chief Blessing Agbebaku, has announced that the state government has procured eight bulletproof patrol trucks to strengthen security operations across Edo’s three senatorial districts.
Agbebaku disclosed this during a high-level security meeting convened by the House on Friday in Benin City. He revealed that two of the trucks had already arrived, with the remaining six expected soon, underscoring the government’s commitment to tackling insecurity head-on.
The Speaker urged residents to support security agencies by providing credible information that could help in combating crime. He emphasized that intelligence from the public is vital, noting that “security agents are human, not magicians,” and require actionable data to operate effectively.
Agbebaku also called for seamless collaboration among security agencies, commending Governor Monday Okpebholo for providing the necessary resources to enhance security efforts.
“This meeting is aimed at strengthening security in the state and ensuring the safety of lives and property. The House is ready to collaborate with all security agencies to make Edo safe enough for our people to feel secure,” he said.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Mrs. Marie Oligbi-Edeko, Chairperson of the House Committee on Security and Public Safety, explained that the session was designed to provide practical solutions to Edo’s security challenges.
She stressed the importance of synergy among agencies, with the police taking the lead role in coordinating operations. Emerging crimes such as kidnappings and illegal activities in mining areas were discussed, alongside strategies to counter them.
“The stakeholders also examined the role of neighbourhood watch groups and modern security technology in enhancing safety. The committee will work with agencies to develop a blueprint for tackling insecurity and identify areas where new laws may be required,” Oligbi-Edeko said.
Mr. Jonathan Ibhamawu, representing Esan West Constituency and a member of the committee, highlighted that intelligence gathering and strategic planning were central to the discussions.
The meeting was attended by representatives of key security agencies, including the Police, Army, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Edo Fire Service, and the Edo Forestry Commission.