The political landscape of Edo State has been marred by a contentious exchange between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the state government, led by Governor Monday Okpebholo, concerning the alarming rise in kidnappings and violent crimes. The PDP, through its Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, has launched a scathing attack on the Okpebholo administration, accusing it of gross incompetence and transforming Edo State into a haven for criminals. Nehikhare pointed to the recent abduction of Afenifere Youth Council National President, Prince Eniola Olajuni, and the alleged killings of at least 22 individuals as evidence of the deteriorating security situation. He further blamed Governor Okpebholo for prioritizing political patronage over the safety and security of Edo residents, alleging that the governor has crippled the state’s vigilante network and allowed Edo to descend into a state of “total collapse.” The PDP’s spokesperson also raised questions about the utilization of the N750 million monthly security allocation, implying that the funds are not being effectively used to combat crime.
The state government, however, vehemently refutes these allegations. Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, dismissed the PDP’s claims as “reckless, misleading, and baseless,” characterizing them as politically motivated propaganda aimed at tarnishing the image of the current administration. Itua argued that Edo State is not the “kidnapping capital” of Nigeria, as claimed by the PDP, and that such a portrayal is a malicious fabrication designed to undermine the government’s efforts to improve security. He further countered the PDP’s accusations by highlighting the insecurity that prevailed during the previous administration’s tenure, citing instances of rampant cult violence that resulted in over 100 deaths and the kidnapping of the then-PDP state chairman. Itua emphasized that Governor Okpebholo’s administration is committed to tackling insecurity and is prudently utilizing security funds to protect lives and property.
The crux of the disagreement lies in the contrasting narratives presented by both sides. The PDP paints a grim picture of a state overrun by criminals, where residents live in constant fear and businesses are threatened. They attribute this insecurity to the alleged mismanagement of security resources and the governor’s misplaced priorities. Conversely, the state government maintains that it is actively working to improve security, citing various initiatives undertaken to combat crime, including the deployment of specialized tactical teams, a crackdown on cultism, the procurement of security equipment, and the provision of motorcycles for enhanced patrols. They argue that the PDP’s claims are a distortion of reality and that security in Edo State is, in fact, improving.
The dispute highlights the politically charged atmosphere in Edo State, where accusations and counter-accusations are frequently traded between the ruling party and the opposition. The PDP’s allegations, if substantiated, raise serious concerns about the government’s ability to maintain law and order and protect its citizens. On the other hand, if the state government’s claims are accurate, the PDP’s statements could be seen as an attempt to exploit public anxieties for political gain. The conflicting narratives underscore the need for an objective assessment of the security situation in Edo State, based on verifiable data and independent analysis.
This public sparring between the PDP and the state government also raises broader questions about transparency and accountability in governance. The PDP’s questioning of the utilization of security votes underscores the need for greater transparency in how public funds allocated for security are spent. The public has a right to know how their money is being used to address critical issues like security, and the government has a responsibility to provide clear and detailed accounts of its expenditure. Furthermore, both sides should refrain from engaging in inflammatory rhetoric and focus on presenting evidence-based arguments to support their claims. The politicization of security issues can further erode public trust and hinder efforts to address the root causes of crime and violence.
Ultimately, the well-being and security of the people of Edo State should be the paramount concern for all stakeholders. A constructive dialogue, based on facts and evidence, is essential to address the security challenges facing the state. Both the government and the opposition have a responsibility to work together to find solutions, rather than engaging in a blame game that serves only to exacerbate tensions and deepen political divisions. The people of Edo deserve to live in a safe and secure environment, and achieving this requires a concerted effort from all parties involved.
