Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has indefinitely suspended the Public Safety Response Team (PSRT) led by Kelly Okungbowa following widespread complaints of misconduct, including extortion and harassment.
The latest controversy involving the team resulted in the death of a two-year-old girl on Wednesday. The tragedy occurred at Ring Road in Benin when PSRT operatives allegedly attempted to seize the steering wheel of a moving vehicle.
The driver lost control, causing the bus to swerve off the road and crash into a roadside POS kiosk, instantly killing the child standing there with her mother.
An angry mob at the scene reportedly attacked the PSRT officers before taking them, along with the child’s lifeless body, to a nearby police station.
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In a statement signed by Umar Ikhilor, the state government justified the suspension, citing numerous complaints against the team.
“It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the indefinite suspension of the Public Safety Response Team headed by Kelly Okungbowa.
“This decision is occasioned by several complaints received by the State Government on allegations of extortion, harassment and unruly behaviour by members of the team,” the statement read.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order, stressing that the PSRT was originally established to “help maintain public order, assist in protecting public infrastructure and curb illegal activities like street trading and illegal parking in our communities.”
A comprehensive review of the team’s structure, recruitment, and training will be conducted to ensure all state-sanctioned operations uphold professionalism, fairness, and respect for human dignity, the statement added.