The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the suspension of the Commander of the State Security Network Corps (SSNC), Friday Ibadin, by Governor Monday Okpebholo, describing it as proof that the state’s security architecture has collapsed.
Governor Okpebholo announced the suspension on Sunday following the killing of seven suspected kidnappers in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, on March 27, 2025. He also ordered the disbandment of illegal vigilante groups across the state.
In a statement released in Benin City, Chris Nehikhare, the PDP Caretaker Committee’s Publicity Secretary, criticized the suspension as an acknowledgment of the state government’s failure to manage security. He argued that labeling the perpetrators as an illegal vigilante group highlights the absence of a coherent security strategy under the current administration.
Nehikhare recalled a mutiny within the Edo Security Corps on February 5, 2025, as an early indication of severe inefficiencies that the government chose to ignore. He lamented that the consequences of the administration’s neglect are now being felt by the people of Edo, who are losing their lives to unchecked violence.
“It is deeply troubling that an unregistered vigilante group, without proper oversight or training, was permitted to take up arms and engage in extra-judicial killings,” Nehikhare stated. “This gross lapse in security management is a clear indictment of the Okpebholo administration.”
The PDP also called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the killings to prevent further loss of lives. The party demanded a comprehensive audit and overhaul of the State Security Corps to eliminate unregistered and unregulated groups, ensuring accountability in security operations.
Furthermore, the PDP advocated for federal intervention, emphasizing the need for a new security strategy to stabilize the state. The party called for a non-partisan security summit involving stakeholders, traditional leaders, community heads, security agencies, and opposition parties to develop an effective security blueprint.
Nehikhare stressed that Governor Okpebholo must take decisive action to restore security or step aside for a more competent administration. He assured that the PDP remains committed to advocating for the protection of Edo citizens and ensuring that justice is served.
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