Governor Okpebholo Declares: “Nigeria Does Not Belong to Kidnappers” Amid Rising Security Fears

Benin City, Nigeria – June 7, 2026 – Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo delivered a forceful declaration over the weekend, asserting that Nigeria remains the property of its law-abiding citizens, not the kidnappers and criminal syndicates terrorizing communities across the nation. Speaking at LoveWorld City (Christ Embassy) in Benin City on Sunday, the governor framed the fight against abduction and cultism as a spiritual and collective battle, urging Nigerians to reclaim their nation through prayer and unity. The statement comes at a time when kidnapping-for-ransom has surged in several states, particularly as the 2027 general elections approach.

Governor Okpebholo’s visit to the church was specifically to request prayers against the twin scourges of kidnapping and cultism, which he identified as critical threats to public safety and democratic stability. In his address to the congregation, he emphasized that no individual or group should be allowed to hold the country hostage for personal or political gain. “This country does not belong to kidnappers. No individual or group should hold the nation captive for personal or political interests,” he declared, setting a tone of defiance against the criminal networks that have turned highways and rural areas into zones of fear.

Beyond security, the governor broadened his prayer request to include peace, prosperity, good governance, and economic recovery. He specifically called on the faithful to intercede for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asking God to grant the president wisdom, guidance, and strength to steer the nation through its economic and security crises. Okpebholo’s appeal reflects a growing trend among Nigerian leaders to merge governance with spiritual advocacy, especially as the country grapples with inflation, unemployment, and widespread insecurity.

The governor acknowledged that kidnapping has become a particularly “growing concern” as elections draw nearer, signaling a worrying trend where criminality and political manipulation intersect. However, he expressed confidence that prayers from God’s people, combined with coordinated government efforts, would overcome these challenges. “As elections draw closer, kidnapping has become a growing concern. However, with the prayers of God's people and collective efforts, we believe these challenges will be overcome,” he added, urging the congregation not to lose hope in the face of adversity.

Pastor Moses Olayemi, who officiated the service, led the congregation in prayers for Nigeria, its leaders, local government areas, the economy, and affected communities. He specifically invoked divine peace, protection, economic restoration, and spiritual awakening across Edo State and the nation. The church’s active role in the event underscores the deepening relationship between political leadership and religious institutions, as both seek to address the country’s multifaceted crises through a blend of policy and faith.

In a notable shift from spiritual matters to governance, Pastor Olayemi commended Governor Okpebholo for his ongoing developmental projects, particularly the improvements in road infrastructure across Edo State. “We appreciate the transformation taking place across the state. The roads and other projects are improving daily, and we commend your efforts. May God grant you the resources and strength to complete what you have started,” he said. This endorsement from the pulpit highlights the governor’s strategy of pairing security rhetoric with tangible development to maintain public confidence.

The press release, signed by Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, concludes with a reaffirmation of the administration’s commitment to combating crime and fostering growth. As Edo State prepares for future electoral contests, Governor Okpebholo’s message serves as both a call to action and a political statement: that Nigeria belongs to its people, and that neither kidnappers nor political opportunists will define its destiny. The challenge now lies in translating these words—and the prayers they inspired—into concrete results on the ground.