Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has distributed 300 motorbikes to security agencies in a move aimed at strengthening the fight against crime and improving access to difficult terrains across the state.
The initiative, unveiled on Tuesday at the Government House in Benin City, was announced in a statement released Wednesday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua.
The commissioning ceremony drew key stakeholders, including Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika; Commander of the 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ebenezer Oduyebo; and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Gani Audu, among others.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that the motorcycles were procured to help security operatives access forests and remote areas often used as hideouts by criminal groups.
“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. These bikes will be deployed across the senatorial districts and will help security agencies reach areas where vehicles cannot go,” he said.
He further stressed his administration’s determination to drive criminals out of Edo, saying: “Let me be clear, criminals must leave Edo State. These motorbikes, along with other security technologies we are deploying, will make it very difficult for them to operate. We are not just equipping the system; we are maintaining it. These bikes will be properly serviced and supported to ensure continuous use.”
Commissioner of Police Agbonika lauded the gesture, describing it as a “new dawn” for the state’s security architecture, particularly in tackling crimes such as kidnapping that thrive in forested areas.
“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,” he said, urging residents to collaborate with security operatives by providing credible information.
The intervention comes months after a security-related tragedy in Uromi, Esan North LGA, where 16 Fulani hunters were lynched after being intercepted by local security operatives. Their deaths drew nationwide condemnation, with President Bola Tinubu ordering a manhunt for the perpetrators and several governors demanding justice for the victims.
Governor Okpebholo’s motorbike distribution is seen as part of broader efforts to prevent such tragedies by improving the ability of security agencies to respond swiftly and effectively across Edo State.
