Uromi Killings: Former Edo Gov’Ship Aspirant Okoukoni Urges Okpebholo To Adopt Comprehensive Security Strategy To Check Current Threat
By Simeon OSAJIE
Former Edo Governorship Aspirant under the platform of Labour Party (LP) in the September 21, 2024 governorship election, Martins Azekhumen Okoukoni has called on Governor Monday Okpebholo to adopt a comprehensive security strategy to prevent further bloodshed and restore peace in the various communities across the state.
Okoukoni who made the call in an open letter to the governor expressed deep concern over what he described as “the escalating insecurity within Edo State, particularly the alarming cases of killings and kidnappings that have left our citizens in fear and distress”.
Martins Okoukoni in the open letter, titled “Urgent Call for Action on Insecurity and Recent Killings in Edo State” reminded the governor of the urgent need to adopt a strategy to ensure the safety and protection of all its citizens, regardless of ethnicity or background.
According to him, “The killing of some Northerners in Uromi last week is a tragic reminder of the growing insecurity in our dear state, and I urge your administration to take immediate and decisive action to curb this menace.
“It is important to emphasize that no Nigerian deserves to be unjustly killed, whether by Fulani herdsmen, terrorists, jungle justice, or even security personnel.
“The right to life is fundamental, and it is the responsibility of the government to ensure the safety and protection of all its citizens, regardless of ethnicity or background.
“The continuous reports of kidnappings, killings, and the rape of women in their farms, especially in Esan land, have undoubtedly contributed to the heightened suspicion and retaliatory attacks against Northerners.
“This situation underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive security strategy to prevent further bloodshed and restore peace in our communities”.
To effectively tackle this crisis, Okoukoni implored the governor to take the following proactive measures which include, the ban on the movement of people in and out of Edo State using goods-only vehicles to curb the influx of criminal elements who exploit such means to evade security checks.
Others measures are “Prohibition of unauthorized individuals from carrying weapons with Only legally recognized security agencies should be allowed to bear arms, reducing the risk of armed violence.
“Enforce a restriction on outdoor sleeping arrangements at night, which will minimize exposure to criminal attacks and unauthorized gatherings that may lead to unrest.
“Set up workshops, training, and empowerment programmes for the youth, as engaging young people productively will help reduce the lure of criminal activities.
“Introduce a Personal Identity Card system and this will enable security agencies to track non-indigenous persons within the state and monitor their activities effectively.
“Enact and enforce laws that protect people, land, and property, as strengthening legal frameworks will ensure accountability and deter criminal acts.
“Prohibit visitors from residing in Edo State’s bushes and streets, as Edo people visiting other states do not stay in the bushes but live in metropolitan areas where they work, engage in business, and contribute to the growth of the state.
“Allowing people to inhabit bushes and streets poses a significant security threat and should be strictly prohibited”.
Okoukoni told the governor that implementing these measures will significantly contribute to curbing insecurity and fostering a peaceful Edo State where every resident can live without fear.
“While I emphatically stated that the people of Edo State look up to your leadership as the executive governor of the state to act decisively and restore safety in our communities, I trust in your commitment to the welfare of our people and urge you to take immediate steps to address these pressing issues” he declared.
