Frontline politician and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 2024 Edo State governorship election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, has expressed deep sadness over the recent killings in Okpekpe, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State. He extended his condolences to the victims? families and the affected communities, praying for strength and fortitude in this difficult time. He also called on law enforcement agencies to swiftly identify and prosecute those responsible.

In a statement signed by Erhabor Emokpae in Benin City on Monday, Ighodalo emphasized the sanctity of human life and strongly condemned the brutal act, allegedly perpetrated by suspected herdsmen, which led to the gruesome killings of Batemue Philip Ebo and Christopher Bello.

?I am deeply saddened by the news of the horrific killing of Batemue Philip Ebo and Christopher Bello in Okpekpe. This heinous crime is utterly condemnable. No one has the right to take another person?s life, least of all in such a barbaric manner. Acts like this erode our collective humanity,? he said.

?I commiserate with the bereaved families and the entire community. I pray that God grants them the strength to bear this painful loss.?

?I urge the relevant security agencies to act swiftly and ensure that those responsible for this dastardly act are brought to justice. Life is sacred, and anyone who unjustly takes another?s life must face the full weight of the law. Only through decisive action can we deter such senseless violence and assure our people that justice will always prevail.?