Okpebholo convenes security stakeholders meeting, suspends traditional ruler

The governor of Edo State, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, has convened a one-day closed-door security stakeholders meeting in Iyamho, Etsako West Local Government Area to address the rising insecurity in Edo North Senatorial District

The meeting had in attendance top security officials, religious and traditional leaders, and political stakeholders from across party lines.

Okpebholo said he was deeply concerned by the deteriorating security situation which informed the need to summon the meeting.

One of the major outcomes of the meeting, held at the residence of Senator Adams Oshiomhole in Iyamho, was a renewed call for stronger community collaboration and the suspension of His Royal Highness George Oshiapi Egabor, the traditional ruler of Uwanno Kingdom in Agenebode.

The traditional ruler was suspended over recent cases of kidnapping and killings in his domain.

Edo North has experienced a recent surge in kidnapping and violent attacks, with farmers and members of the clergy—particularly Reverend Fathers—being the most affected.