Governor Okpebholo Demands Immediate Release Of Kidnap Victims

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has called for the immediate and unconditional release of victims abducted in different parts of Nigeria, warning that political power cannot be attained through kidnapping, banditry or any form of criminal activity.

The governor made the call on Tuesday during the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign for the Edo South Senatorial District local government elections at Urhokpota Hall in Benin City.

Condemning the rising wave of kidnappings across the country, Okpebholo cautioned against using insecurity as a weapon to destabilise governance or frustrate national progress.

According to him, political ambition must never be pursued through violence, fear or criminality.

“Those seeking political power should not distract President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from delivering good governance to Nigerians. Kidnapping innocent citizens will not win elections. Political power cannot be secured through criminal activities,” Okpebholo said.

The governor expressed concern over the recent abduction of students, teachers and other citizens in various parts of the country, including Oyo State, and urged those responsible to release them without delay.

He stressed that insecurity must not be allowed to derail ongoing efforts aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians.

Okpebholo also commended President Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, saying the policy had increased resources available to states for infrastructure development and other critical projects.

Reaffirming his support for the President ahead of the 2027 general election, the governor declared that Edo State would stand firmly behind the administration.

“There is no vacancy in Aso Rock. Edo State will stand firmly behind President Tinubu and his Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

The governor further unveiled what he described as a new political direction for Edo State, saying the APC had deliberately chosen youthful and energetic candidates for the forthcoming local government elections.

“We are changing the face of politics in Edo State by giving young and capable people the opportunity to lead at the grassroots level. The future belongs to our youths, and we are creating pathways for them to contribute meaningfully to governance,” he stated.

Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa praised the administration’s commitment to youth inclusion, noting that young people had been given opportunities to occupy strategic positions in government.

A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of the party’s Edo South Senatorial District candidates by the governor. They include Engr. Ogbeide Ihama as the senatorial candidate, Dr Paddy Iyamu for Oredo Federal Constituency and Bar Omorede Igbinedion for Ovia Federal Constituency, among others.