Edo Governor Calls on Residents to Fight Insecurity With Peace

(Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo. Photo by Governor's Profile)

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo is urging residents to embrace peace.

He says security agencies are working with the state government to protect lives and property.

Speaking at an International Day of Peace programme on Monday, the governor said citizens should help find solutions to insecurity rather than become part of the problem.

His administration has tackled cultism in the state.

Police go bush combing weekly with other security agencies to check kidnapping.

The governor has set up a special court to try suspected cultists and kidnappers.

Okpebholo said the government cannot solve the problem alone and needs resident support.

He called on Nigerians to support President Tinubu's efforts to rid the country of criminals.

"Everyone should embrace peace in Edo and Nigeria because that is the only way the country can develop.

Citizens must support government efforts to rid society of criminal elements," he said.

The NSCDC state commandant said peace is not just the absence of war but a continuous process needing investment in justice, dialogue and tolerance.

Peace creates an environment where children learn without fear, businesses thrive and families prosper.

He said sustainable peace requires government, traditional rulers, religious bodies, civil society, the private sector, media, families and citizens all working together.

Peace must be invested in at home, work, school, communities and places of worship.

The NDLEA commander warned that lasting peace cannot exist where illegal drugs flourish. He said controlling drugs means investing in peace.

Religious and political leaders also spoke, emphasizing that peace starts at home and requires equitable treatment and justice.