Okpebholo distributes motorbikes to improve security in Edo State. On Tuesday, Governor Monday Okpebholo personally handed over 300 new motorbikes to security agencies, giving them tools to reach difficult terrains and tackle criminals hiding in forests.
Strengthening Edo Security
Governor Okpebholo stressed that criminals will no longer find safe havens in Edo. He handed the motorbikes to agencies across the three senatorial districts, ensuring coverage of rural and forested areas. Because these regions often serve as hideouts for kidnappers and armed gangs, improved mobility directly strengthens law enforcement.
The commissioning event took place at the Government House in Benin City. Senior stakeholders such as Commissioner of Police CP Monday Agbonika, Commander of the 4 Brigade Nigerian Army Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Oduyebo, and Chief of Staff Alhaji Gani Audu attended. Their presence reinforced the importance of this initiative.
Delivering on Security Promises
Okpebholo reminded citizens that his campaign included a firm pledge to restore peace. “We promised our people during the campaign that we would fight insecurity and restore peace to every part of Edo State. Today, we are fulfilling that promise,” he said.
He explained that the motorbikes will move security forces into areas cars cannot reach. Moreover, he assured residents that the bikes will remain functional through regular servicing and proper maintenance. In his words, fighting insecurity requires not only equipping forces but also sustaining those resources.
Support from Security Leaders
Commissioner of Police CP Monday Agbonika described the initiative as a “new dawn” for Edo security. He emphasized that the motorbikes will allow officers to penetrate forests where criminals hide. “This is a great day in our fight against crime. With these motorbikes, we can now go deep into the forests where criminals hide. The days of impunity are over,” Agbonika declared.
Additionally, he encouraged residents to support security agencies. By sharing credible information, communities can help authorities prevent crime and conduct faster investigations.
Responding to Rising Insecurity
This intervention follows recent violence in Uromi, Esan North LGA, where a mob killed 16 Fulani hunters after finding dane guns in their truck. The killings sparked outrage nationwide. President Bola Tinubu ordered a manhunt for the perpetrators, while governors demanded justice for the victims.
Because of incidents like this, Edo urgently needs stronger security measures. Deploying motorbikes enhances mobility, allows faster responses, and expands surveillance into isolated areas. These factors combine to improve safety for citizens.
Commitment to Continuous Action
Governor Okpebholo clarified that distributing motorbikes forms just one part of a larger security strategy. Alongside mobility tools, the government plans to introduce new technologies and stronger collaboration with agencies. By combining equipment, training, and public involvement, the administration intends to make Edo an unsafe ground for criminals.
Residents welcomed the gesture, noting that improved policing directly supports peace and stability. If citizens, law enforcement, and the government work together, Edo can reduce violent crime significantly.
