Okpebholo visits Ekpoma fire scene, promises rebuilding of burnt shops

Edo State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, on Monday evening visited Ekpoma to assess the damage caused by an overnight fire that razed several shops built by the Police Officers Wives Association (POWA), assuring affected traders of swift government intervention and improved security measures.

Describing the incident as disturbing, the governor linked it to ongoing acts of violence and sabotage in the area, noting that recent events in Ekpoma point to a pattern of coordinated attacks. He said he was deeply pained by the destruction suffered by the traders.

“A lot of things are happening here now, but we are going after them,” Okpebholo told the shop owners.

The governor dismissed claims that Fulani herdsmen were responsible, insisting that the perpetrators were political elements bent on destabilising the community. He disclosed that arrests had already begun.

“They are killing our people and tagging it as the work of Fulanis. They are not Fulanis; they are political elements, and we have started arresting them,” he said.

Okpebholo warned that those behind the attack would be brought to justice regardless of their status or influence, stressing that no one is above the law. He assured residents that they had nothing to fear.

The governor was accompanied by senior government and security officials, including the Commissioner for Public Security and Safety, Hon. Ebea Festus Odianosen; the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika; and the Commander of the 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Olatunboju.

Speaking earlier, two affected shop owners, Mr. Israel Ughulu and Prof. Aghemelo Austin Thomas, said the fire started around midnight and spread rapidly, leaving them helpless as their shops were completely destroyed before dawn.

In a major relief to the victims, Governor Okpebholo announced that reconstruction of the affected shops would begin within the week, assuring traders that government support would go beyond rebuilding to ensure they return to business without additional financial burden.