Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Tuesday condemned the recent attacks in the state, which he said have claimed 24 lives.
The first clash, which reportedly claimed 22 lives, occurred between cocoa farmers and alleged produce thieves in the agrarian community of Gbelemotin in Ovia South-West Local Government Area. Contrary to the seven deaths initially reported by the Edo State Police Command, sources confirmed a higher toll.
The violence began on Thursday night and escalated on Friday morning when sympathizers of those killed launched a counterattack, leading to more fatalities.
In a separate incident, two residents of Okpekpe community in Etsako East Local Government Area—Batemue Philip Ebo and Christopher Bello—were reportedly killed on Monday by suspected herders.
In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua, the state government declared its zero-tolerance policy for violence and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.
“The governor also denounced the killing of two farmers, Batemue Philip Ebo and Christopher Bello, in Okpekpe community, Etsako East Local Government Area, by suspected herdsmen on Monday.
“The devastating attack on seven farming communities in Ovia South-West, which left 22 people dead and several others injured, was reportedly carried out by militants. The militants also destroyed buildings and farm produce worth millions of naira.
“We will not tolerate any form of violence or lawlessness in Edo State.
“We will work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible for these heinous acts are brought to justice and will do everything in our power to prevent such incidents in the future.”
Meanwhile, Governor Okpebholo has ordered the deployment of additional security personnel to the affected areas and promised support for affected communities.
He added, “We are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Edo State residents. We will work closely with security agencies, traditional leaders, and community members to achieve this goal.
“We urge everyone to remain calm and go about their normal business. We are doing everything possible to ensure that the situation is brought under control.”
