Edo State PDP Blasts Governor Okpebholo Over Security Failures

Scope 04 Apr 2025

PDP Accuses Governor of Shirking Responsibility

Listen up, folks. The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) isn’t holding back when it comes to Governor Monday Okpebholo. They’re calling him out for enjoying the perks of being governor while dodging responsibility for the state’s escalating security crisis. It’s like he’s got the keys to the candy store but won’t admit when there’s a sugar shortage.

Now, here’s the kicker. The party is particularly peeved about how he’s trying to pin the blame on the suspended State Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd), after that horrifying incident where travelers were lynched in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, on March 27, 2025. Can you imagine the outrage that must’ve sparked?

According to the PDP, Okpebholo, as the state’s top security officer, should be the one wearing the accountability hat. After all, it’s his job to ensure the people of Edo State can go about their lives without fear of violence, kidnappings, or killings. But instead, it seems like he’s more interested in pointing fingers than rolling up his sleeves.

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Statement from the Edo PDP

Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, laid it all out in a statement shared with Naija News. He didn’t mince words, accusing Okpebholo of using his appointees as scapegoats to avoid taking the heat. Let me break it down for you.

“As the Governor of Edo State, Okpebholo is the Chief Security Officer. That means he’s responsible for keeping everyone safe, no matter what. The Constitution gives him a lot of power, but with that comes serious responsibilities. He can’t just enjoy the good stuff that comes with the job and then bail when it’s time to be accountable,” the statement read.

“Think about it. Since he took office, there have been so many incidents of abductions, killings, and violent attacks. At least 100 people have lost their lives in just a few months. And then there’s that tragic lynching of 16 innocent northerners who were just trying to get home. Instead of stepping up and taking charge, what does he do? He shifts the blame onto Ibadin, the guy he personally hired. And now, he’s even had the DSS arrest him. What’s that all about?”

A Pattern of Avoidance

The PDP isn’t stopping there. They’re pointing out a disturbing pattern of evasion. For instance, Okpebholo suspended his own Chief Law Officer and Attorney General, Samson Osagie, over some serious financial issues. Was that just another way to deflect responsibility? Then there’s the suspension of Damian Lawani, Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, and Kelly Okungbowa, also known as Ebo Stone, after that tragic incident at Ring Road in Benin City where a child lost their life. Each time, it seems like he’s trying to dodge accountability.

“When will Okpebholo finally step up and take responsibility for the job he was elected to do?” the PDP asked. “We’re calling on the Federal Government, civil society organizations, and the people of Edo State to hold him accountable. Security is his primary responsibility, not someone else’s.”

There you have it, folks. The PDP is making it crystal clear: Governor Okpebholo needs to own up to his responsibilities and stop playing the blame game. The people of Edo State deserve nothing less.