We Won’t Tolerate Criminal Hideouts in Edo” — Gov. Okpebholo Warns, Demolishes Suspected Kidnappers’ Den
In a bold move to clean up Edo State and make it safer for everyone, Governor Monday Okpebholo has warned landlords and property owners that any building linked to crime—be it kidnapping, cultism, or ritual activities—will be pulled down without hesitation.
The governor gave this warning on Wednesday 30th of April 2025, while personally supervising the demolition of a building in the Ogheghe area of Benin City. The property, according to reports, had been used for internet fraud and served as a hideout for kidnappers who allegedly kept victims captive and subjected them to ritual abuse.
Clearly disturbed by the scene, Governor Okpebholo didn’t hold back. “It’s heartbreaking. Children were kidnapped and held here for years. You can see the shrines inside the house. This is pure evil, and we won’t allow this in Edo State,” he said.
He went further to assure residents that his administration is committed to rooting out all forms of criminality. “No matter where criminals hide, we will find them. Their safe havens will be destroyed. Edo must be safe for everyone.”
And he’s not just tearing things down—he has plans to rebuild too. The governor revealed that a police station will be constructed on the land where the demolished building once stood. “Any land recovered from criminals will be turned into something useful for the community,” he promised.
Crackdown on Cultism Heats Up
In another major development, the state government also pulled down a suspected cultists’ hideout at the end of Arena Street in Amagba. The building reportedly had a large hall, rooms with mattresses, office spaces, and even a moat—believed to be used for initiation rituals.
The move comes on the heels of the newly signed anti-cultism law, which gives the state legal backing to demolish any property tied to cult groups.
Governor Okpebholo also confirmed that Eterno Hotel, located in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) of Benin, has been sealed off. The hotel is believed to be linked to yet another cult group involved in recent violence and killings in the area.
“No one will be spared—no matter how influential,” the governor said firmly. “With the Cultism-Related Offenses Law now in force, we’re going after every group or individual threatening the peace of our state. Our mission is clear: to restore law, order, and safety for every resident of Edo.”
