Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has launched the ‘Still Water III’ operation to guarantee the safety and security of Edo people during the festive season.
The flag-off ceremony took place at Okoroma Community General Area in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State.
Commending the Chief of Army Staff, the military, and other security agencies for their unwavering commitment to addressing insecurity and safeguarding lives and property, Obaseki expressed his gratitude for scheduling the operation’s flag-off to coincide with the 2023 Alaghodaro summit.
Highlighting the pivotal role that security plays in societal development, the governor emphasized that investors are hesitant to bring their resources into any area or community without assurances of safety and security.
Governor Obaseki acknowledged the significant improvement in security within Edo State in the past three years, largely due to the collaboration between federal and state security agencies.
‘Exercise Still Water III’ aims to strengthen the activities of security operatives to ensure a safe atmosphere as families gather for the celebrations. Obaseki expressed confidence that Edo State will experience a low record of criminal incidents during the yuletide season, building on the positive trend of recent years.
The governor extended his appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff and the military formations in Edo State for their support. He highlighted the establishment of an Army Forward Base in Ehor three years ago to combat the high incidence of kidnapping along the Benin-Auchi Road. Also, the governor praised the Chief of Army Staff for approving another Army Forward Base in Sobe following reports of increased criminal activities in the area.
Brigadier General Danlami Ndahi, Commander HQ 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Benin City, explained that ‘Exercise Still Water III’ aims to eliminate various crimes prevalent in Edo State, such as kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, farmer-herder clashes, child trafficking, oil bunkering, communal clashes, and drug peddling. The exercise will involve collaboration among various security agencies, fostering unity and purpose in eradicating various crimes in Edo State.
The Enogie of Obagie Nevbuosa, HRH Imadomwinyi Endurance, expressed gratitude for the exercise, noting that the ’ember’ months typically witness a rise in crime rates. Recognizing the importance of security in attracting investments to the state, the community pledged its full support for the exercise’s success.
