In the wake of protests that paralysed commercial activities in Ekpoma and its environs, the Edo State Government has called on the people to remain law-abiding, calm, and supportive of security operatives who continue to work tirelessly to protect lives and property.

The State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, in a statement, said while the government recognises the constitutional right of citizens to express concerns, it is important to state very clearly that matters of security require calm, coordination, and constructive engagement. Actions such as blocking roads and disrupting movement, especially in the name of protest, do not aid security operations and may inadvertently expose residents to further risks or be exploited by criminal elements. Citizens must resist the urge to be caught in such dangerous tendencies.

“It is on record that since he took office, Governor Monday Okpebholo, who understands the concerns of Edo residents, has remained responsive to genuine complaints relating to safety. However, the government believes that effective security solutions are best achieved through intelligence sharing, community collaboration, and sustained engagement with security agencies, not through unstructured actions that undermine public order.

“Governor Okpebholo’s security strategy is built around proactive measures, including the strengthening of the Edo Security Corps, neighbourhood watch initiatives, and continuous engagement with community leaders, traditional institutions, and sister states. These platforms are available for residents to channel security-related concerns, provide useful information, and contribute meaningfully to keeping their communities safe.

“It must be emphasised that uncoordinated protests around security matters can distract security agencies from ongoing operations and complicate efforts to address criminal activities. The state therefore urges residents to remain law-abiding, calm, and supportive of security operatives who continue to work tirelessly to protect lives and property.

“The Edo State Government remains open to dialogue and reassures the people of Ekpoma and the entire state that security strategies are being continuously reviewed and strengthened in line with Governor Okpebholo’s unwavering commitment to making Edo State safer for all,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, the Acting Chairman of Esan West Local Government Council, Albert Blessing Ebhodaghe, has imposed a daily restriction on the movement and operation of commercial and private motorcycles (popularly known as Okada) and tricycles (Keke) across the Local Government Area to strengthen public law and order.

“The directive, which takes effect immediately, mandates that all Okada and Keke operators must cease movement by 7:00 pm daily within the local government area,” the Chairman said in a statement, emphasising that the measure is part of broader efforts to enhance security, curb criminal activities, and ensure the safety of residents.

He said security agencies operating within the LGA have been formally instructed to enforce the restriction strictly. Operators or individuals found violating the order will face appropriate sanctions in line with existing laws and regulations.

Besides, Ebhodaghe stated that the restriction is a proactive response to emerging security concerns and is intended to support law enforcement agencies in their efforts to protect lives and property, particularly during nighttime hours when criminal activities are more prevalent.

He urged residents and transport operators to cooperate fully with the policy, as the local government works toward creating a safer and more orderly environment for all.

The Chairman, while acknowledging the role of Okada and Keke services in local transportation, stressed that public safety remains the highest priority of his administration.

The Esan West Local Government Area reaffirmed its commitment to engaging relevant stakeholders and monitoring the impact of the restriction to ensure it effectively contributes to peace, stability, and improved security across the communities.

(Sun)