De Parrot Media: Edo State Residents Hail Okpebholo's Security Reforms, Celebrate Safest Yuletide in a Decade
Benin City, Edo State – January 12, 2025 – Edo State residents are showering praise on Governor Monday Okpebholo, crediting his administration's security reforms with delivering the safest Yuletide season in almost a decade. Just 60 days into his governorship, Okpebholo's decisive actions have dramatically shifted the security landscape, effectively ending a wave of inter-cult violence that claimed over 100 lives in the months leading up to his inauguration.
The Governor's swift response, including a November 19th meeting with security chiefs resulting in an intensified crackdown on cultism and kidnapping, has yielded palpable results. Residents across the state, particularly along previously volatile areas like the Benin-Ekpoma Road, report a significant decrease in crime.
"For the first time in years, we can walk freely without fear," said one Benin City resident. Another echoed this sentiment, highlighting the noticeable improvement in safety. "The difference is clear, and we are grateful for his proactive measures."
The Benin-Ekpoma Road, once notorious for kidnappings and attacks, has seen a dramatic turnaround thanks to road repairs and increased security presence. A trader along the corridor described the transformation: "Before now, traveling on this road was a nightmare. But the repairs and improved security presence have made a huge difference."
The improved infrastructure also contributed to a significant reduction in road accidents during the festive period, according to an official from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). The official attributed the decrease to the governor's rapid intervention in fixing hazardous road sections.
Beyond the roads, Okpebholo's crackdown on market thugs and the ban on unauthorized revenue collection have brought peace to marketplaces across the state. Traders expressed relief at the newfound freedom from harassment and extortion. One market woman in Benin City stated, "We can now do business without harassment...The markets are peaceful and feel like a new beginning."
The overwhelmingly positive feedback reflects a significant shift from the previous administration's struggles with widespread kidnappings and cult violence. Residents are calling on Governor Okpebholo to maintain this momentum and extend his pragmatic approach to other sectors of the state. One resident concluded, "We are impressed with what the governor has achieved in such a short time. He should continue to build on this foundation and make Edo State a model of progress and security."