Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has condemned the killing of a youth shot dead by suspected gunmen at the main gate of the University of Benin in broad daylight on Sunday.
The governor’s position was contained in a statement issued on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele.
Describing the incident as a serious violation of human dignity and public safety, Okpebholo said the attack, which occurred on a day considered sacred by many, was totally unacceptable and an affront to the values his administration upholds.
The statement added, “Governor Okpebholo extends his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the deceased, whose life was violently and senselessly cut short.
The Edo State Police Command has commenced investigations into the incident, while security agencies are working round the clock to identify and apprehend all those responsible. They may run, but they cannot hide forever.
“Governor Okpebholo assures the public and the family of the victim that the case will not be swept under the rug. The perpetrators will be found and justice will be served.”
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to tackling cult-related violence, the governor said efforts to eradicate cultism across the state had been intensified since he assumed office.
The statement noted that these measures include ongoing security operations in identified cult hotspots, leading to arrests and prosecutions, as well as strengthened cooperation between the state government, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and the Nigerian Army to dismantle criminal networks.
It also highlighted community-based engagements involving traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, and civil society organisations aimed at curbing cult recruitment and violence.
In addition, rehabilitation and reintegration programmes for vulnerable youths have been introduced to address long-term prevention.
According to the governor, the latest killing underscores the need for continued and intensified security efforts.
“The governor stated that these efforts are already yielding results. He noted that the murder of a young person in broad daylight is a grim reminder that the battle is far from over and that the government must continue to intensify its efforts.
READ ALSO: Gunmen Kill UNIBEN Student, Injure Two Others Near Campus Gate
“Edo State will not be a sanctuary for criminals. Those who carry arms and terrorise innocent people will face the full consequences of the law.”
He further called on members of the public with useful information about the incident to report to the police or any relevant security agency, assuring that all information provided would be treated confidentially.
“The Edo State Government remains fully committed to securing every community and every part of the state, so that no family will have to endure the pain of losing a loved one to senseless cult violence,” he added.
The incident involved the killing of a student, identified as Alexander Omogiate, who was shot by masked gunmen while driving out of the University of Benin main gate in a JLK Mercedes Benz on Sunday evening.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers fired at close range before fleeing the scene. The victim had reportedly completed his Political Science examination about an hour before the attack.
Two other occupants in the vehicle were also injured and were taken to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital for treatment, while a passerby was reportedly hit by a stray bullet.
One witness said, “They shot him at close range and there was no way he could have survived the attack. Two others who were in the vehicle were also injured and rushed to the school’s health care centre.”
Police operatives from the Ugbowo Divisional Headquarters evacuated the victim’s body from the scene.
Confirming the incident, Police Public Relations Officer Eno Ikoedem said the attack occurred around 17:00hrs, adding that investigations had begun into the fatal shooting.