In a statement released on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki denounced the killing of two farmers, Batemue Philip Ebo and Christopher Bello, in Okpekpe community, Etsako East Local Government Area, by suspected herdsmen.
According to Edotoday, the heinous attack on seven farming communities in Ovia-South West LGA of the state, which left 22 people dead and numerous others injured, was allegedly carried out by militants who also destroyed buildings and farm produce valued at millions of naira.
“We will not tolerate any form of violence or lawlessness in Edo State. We will work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible for these heinous acts are brought to justice, and we will do everything in our power to prevent such incidents from happening again in the future,” he said.
Although, Governor Okpebholo ordered the deployment of additional security personnel to the affected areas and provision of support to the affected communities.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Edo State residents,” Governor Okpebholo said. “We will work closely with the security agencies, traditional leaders, and community members to achieve this goal.”
The Governor also called on the people of Edo State to remain calm and cooperate with the security agencies as they work to address the crisis.
“We urge everyone to remain calm and to go about their normal business,” Governor Okpebholo said. “We are doing everything possible to ensure that the situation is brought under control,” the dstatement said.
