Edo Govt Condemns Daylight Killing at UNIBEN Gate, Vows to Stamp Out Cultism
By Ojo Evans
Benin City, May 11, 2026
The Edo State Government has condemned the murder of a youth by gunmen at the main gate of the University of Benin on Sunday, describing the killing as “brazen and cold-blooded” and an affront to human dignity.
Governor Monday Okpebholo, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, said the daylight attack on a day “regarded as sacred by many” was completely unacceptable and a threat to public safety. He extended condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the deceased.
The Edo State Police Command has commenced investigations into the incident. Security agencies are working to identify and apprehend those responsible. “They may run, but they cannot hide forever,” Governor Okpebholo said, assuring the public that the case will not be swept under the rug and that the perpetrators will face justice.
Reiterating his administration’s stance against cultism, the governor outlined sustained measures already taken since he assumed office. These include security operations in cult-prone communities leading to arrests and prosecutions, collaboration with the Nigerian Police Force, DSS, and the Nigerian Army to dismantle cult networks, and community engagement with traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, and civil society.
The government said it is also supporting the rehabilitation and reintegration of young persons vulnerable to cult recruitment, noting that long-term peace requires both enforcement and prevention. While these efforts are yielding results, the governor admitted that Sunday’s killing is a grim reminder that the battle is far from over.
“Edo State will not be a sanctuary for criminals,” Okpebholo declared. “Those who carry arms and terrorise innocent people will face the full consequences of the law.”
The government urged members of the public with useful information on the killing to contact the Edo State Police Command or any other security agency immediately, adding that all information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality.