Okpebholo Warns Edo Residents Against Criminal Recruitment

On Wednesday, Edo State Governor Mondai Okpebholo issued a warning to residents against recruiting criminals from outside the state to carry out kidnappings, stating that such actions exacerbate insecurity and undermine ongoing security efforts. Speaking at the 2026 ministerial conference organized by the Edo State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Benin City, Okpebholo expressed concern over individuals who exaggerate incidents of insecurity and spread false information on social media to discredit the administration.

He noted that investigations by security agencies revealed that violent crimes, including kidnappings, are often facilitated by local collaborators who hire armed gangs from outside the state. Okpebholo urged residents to be wary of individuals who suddenly display lavish lifestyles without visible sources of income.

He also called on religious leaders to refrain from intervening in criminal cases, asserting that the administration would not tolerate interference in the prosecution of suspects.