𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓: 𝐄𝐃𝐎-𝐎𝐊𝐏𝐀 𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐔𝐌 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐌𝐍𝐒 𝐑𝐈𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐄𝐂𝐔𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐈𝐍 𝐄𝐊𝐏𝐎𝐌𝐀 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐄𝐍𝐕𝐈𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐒

The Edo-Okpa Unity Forum Worldwide expresses deep concern and strongly condemns the recent wave of violent crimes, kidnappings, and senseless killings reported in Ekpoma and the wider Esan West Local Government Area.

The tragic killing of a young entrepreneur in his own residence, alongside reports of attempted abductions and growing fear among residents, paints a disturbing picture of insecurity that can no longer be ignored. These acts are not only criminal but strike at the very heart of our collective safety, dignity, and economic survival.

We state unequivocally that these deadly and nefarious activities must stop.

We therefore call on the Executive Governor of Edo State and all relevant security agencies to treat this situation with the urgency and seriousness it deserves. 

We urge that:

A thorough and swift investigation be carried out to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Proactive security measures should be intensified across Ekpoma and surrounding communities to prevent further attacks.

Furthermore, we strongly advocate for the recognition, strengthening, and empowerment of local vigilante groups, who often serve as the first line of defense in our communities. Their collaboration with formal security agencies is critical in addressing this growing threat.

We also call on the Acting Chairman of Esan West LGA to summon all the security agencies in the LGA to always work with intelligence given to them promptly especially distress calls.

Our people cannot continue to live in fear. Farmers must be able to go to their farms. Traders must conduct their businesses. Families must sleep with both eyes closed and  assured of their safety.

Edo-Okpa Unity Forum stands in solidarity with all affected families and calls for collective action to restore peace, security, and normalcy in our land.

Enough is enough.

Signed:

National Coordinator

Edo-Okpa Unity Forum Worldwide

Edo State Coordinator

Edo-Okpa Unity Forum Worldwide