Governor Monday Okpebholo has raised serious concerns about internal collaboration in criminal activities, alleging that certain individuals in Edo State are traveling to other regions of Nigeria to recruit criminals for operations involving kidnapping, armed robbery, and related offenses within the state.
The governor made these remarks on Wednesday while addressing participants at the 2026 Ministers’ Conference organized by the Edo State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Benin City. The event focused on the pressing issue of insecurity across Edo and the wider country.
Okpebholo noted that while genuine security challenges exist, a large number of circulating reports—particularly on social media—are fabricated. He shared a recent experience where he received an alert about a supposed incident along the Sapele Road. He promptly ordered security forces to respond, only to discover the report was untrue.
“Our people are now recruiting criminals from outside to carry out these jobs,” he stated. “They kidnap victims and hand them over to accomplices hiding in the bush. The next day, you see them driving flashy cars and putting up big houses. When asked how they make their money, they claim to be ‘Yahoo Boys’ or give other excuses.”
The governor issued a stern warning: once arrests are made, he does not want pleas or interventions on behalf of the suspects. He suggested that some of the negative reports are deliberately spread to undermine his administration, even as he acknowledged the reality of existing security threats.
To combat the problem, the governor revealed that volunteer groups have been deployed into forest areas to prevent criminals from establishing bases in the state.
In a broader appeal, Okpebholo called on the congregation to offer special prayers for President Bola Tinubu, describing the removal of fuel subsidies as a tough but essential decision that is now fueling massive infrastructural projects visible across Edo State.
Also speaking at the event, Pastor Margaret Agbonifo, Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) in Edo, commended Governor Okpebholo for his dedication to both governance and spiritual matters. She expressed gratitude to God for sparing Nigeria and voiced confidence that the nation would overcome its current difficulties through divine mercy.
“Insurgency will not bring this country to an end,” she prayed. Turning to the governor, she declared: “You will finish strong and leave Edo State far better than you met it. You will be among the best governors Edo has ever had. The Lord will strengthen you, and Edo will not have negative stories to tell about your administration.”
Similarly, Rev. Alfred Agbonlahor, Vice Chairman of the Edo CAN chapter, praised the governor for the ongoing rehabilitation and construction work on the Benin-Sapele Road, describing it as a significant achievement.
The conference highlighted both the security realities facing the state and the role of faith leaders in supporting government efforts toward peace and development.