Sen Ikpea Backs Planned Special Edo Court For Kidnappers, Cultists

As reactions continue to trail the decision of Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, to establish a special court for the speedy trial of suspected kidnappers and cultists, the senator representing Edo Central Senatorial District, Senator Joseph Ikpea, has thrown his weight behind the move, describing it as a bold step towards tackling insecurity in the state.

Ikpea, in a statement issued on Friday from his Ewatto country home in Esan South-East local government area of Edo State, commended Governor Okpebholo for his support to security agencies and efforts aimed at restoring safety across the state.

The lawmaker also praised the governor for the successful crackdown on kidnapping syndicates operating in parts of the state, particularly the rescue of a woman abducted at the popular Vegetable Market in Benin City and the arrest of one of the suspected gang members.

Recall that the Edo State Police Command on Thursday paraded several suspected kidnappers, including one of the alleged perpetrators of the Vegetable Market abduction.

During the parade, Governor Okpebholo announced plans to facilitate the establishment of a special court that would fast-track the trial of suspected kidnappers and cultists.

The governor also vowed to sign the death warrants of convicted kidnappers in line with existing laws and commended security operatives for their swift response, announcing a N10 million reward for officers involved in the rescue operation.

Reacting to the development, Senator Ikpea described the governor’s directive to security agencies following the kidnapping incident as timely and commendable.

“Governor Okpebholo’s prompt directive to the Edo police to fish out the perpetrators of the Vegetable Market kidnap incident immediately after the Sunday attack in Benin City, and the response of the police and other security agencies that led to the rescue of the victim and arrest of a member of the gang, is highly commendable,” he said.

According to the senator, the swift action by the governor sends a strong warning to criminal elements operating in the state while boosting public confidence in government’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

“The governor’s prompt action is a clear signal to criminal elements around the state that nowhere is safe for them and a huge confidence booster for citizens that they are protected,” Ikpea stated.

The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating with the state government and other stakeholders to strengthen security across Edo State.

“As the senator representing Edo Central, I reaffirm my support and determination to collaborate with the state government in ensuring that Edo Central remains safe.

“I am also committed to working with my colleagues representing the other senatorial districts to support efforts aimed at ensuring security in all parts of the state,” he added.

Ikpea further urged residents to make security a collective responsibility by providing useful information to security agencies, stressing that community participation remains critical to winning the fight against crime.