Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has issued a stern warning to landlords, declaring that his administration will not hesitate to demolish buildings linked to criminal activities such as kidnapping, cultism, and rituals.
The governor emphasized his administration’s resolve to ensure a crime-free environment in the state.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua,
Okpebholo was said to have to have given the warning while personally supervising the demolition of a building located in the Ogheghe area of Benin City.
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The building was reportedly used for internet fraud and kidnapping, with victims allegedly held against their will and subjected to ritualistic practices.
Visibly disturbed by what he witnessed at the site, the governor said: “I am saddened by what is happening here. Children were kidnapped and kept here for years.
“You can see the shrines in this apartment—this is wickedness in its highest form. This kind of evil is unacceptable in Edo State.”
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Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to security, the governor vowed: “We will continue to fight crime and criminality.
“Wherever they hide, we will fish them out and demolish their hideouts. There will be no sanctuary for criminals in Edo State. We are serious and resolute—Edo must be safe.”
Okpebholo also announced plans to repurpose the sites of demolished properties for public use.
“We are going to build a police station here. Any land where such buildings are taken down will be used to serve the community,” he assured.