Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has condemned the reported kidnapping of a woman at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road in Benin City, describing the incident as a disturbing attack on innocent residents and a threat to public safety.
The governor, in a statement issued on Monday through his media aide, Patrick Ebojele, directed the Edo State Commissioner of Police to launch an immediate investigation into the incident and intensify efforts to secure the safe rescue of the victim while bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Okpebholo said the state government would not condone criminal activities capable of undermining the security and peace of Edo State, stressing that those responsible for the abduction must be tracked down and prosecuted.
“I strongly condemn this act of kidnapping and I call on the Commissioner of Police to immediately open investigation into the matter,” the governor stated.
He further warned that his administration would remain firm in its resolve to protect residents and ensure that criminal elements do not operate freely within the state.
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“As a government, we will not tolerate any act that threatens public safety and security or disturbs the peace of the state,” he added.
The governor also appealed to residents of Benin City and other parts of the state to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies, noting that timely intelligence would aid ongoing operations.
Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, assuring residents that efforts would continue until those behind the kidnapping are apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law.
The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday at the Vegetable Market on Airport Road, where a woman was allegedly abducted while shopping. A video said to have captured the incident has since circulated on social media, raising concerns among residents over security in the area.