The Governor of Edo State, Gov. Monday Okpebholo, has suspended Dr. George Egabor, the Okumagbe of Uwano Kingdom in Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area. This action comes amid growing concerns over the rising cases of kidnapping and killings in the community, which have caused immense fear among residents.
The suspension, which is indefinite, was officially announced in a statement issued by Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo. The state government’s decision underscores its commitment to maintaining peace and security in the state and sending a strong message about accountability and the role of traditional rulers in ensuring law and order.
The situation in Uwano Kingdom has escalated over recent months, with kidnappers targeting residents and causing widespread unrest. The latest and most disturbing incident occurred when a palace chief, John Ikhamate, was tragically killed during a violent attack linked to the kidnapping syndicates operating in the area.
In addition to suspending Dr. George Egabor, the state government also confirmed the arrest of Peter Omiogbemhi, the secretary to the traditional ruler. Omiogbemhi’s arrest follows a series of investigations into the kidnapping activities and the death of Chief Ikhamate. The arrest has added another layer of controversy to the situation, raising questions about the extent of the involvement of the traditional institution in the community’s rising insecurity.
Kidnapping for ransom has become a serious crime in many parts of Nigeria, particularly in rural communities like those in Etsako East. Over the years, residents have lived in constant fear of abductions, with many families paying huge sums of money to secure the release of their loved ones. In many cases, the kidnappers are well-organized criminal gangs, often believed to have ties to both local and external networks.
The suspension of the Okumagbe and the arrest of his secretary signal the Edo State government’s determination to tackle this menace head-on. Authorities have stressed the need for traditional rulers to play an active role in ensuring the safety of their people, as they are seen as key figures in maintaining order in their respective communities.
In a statement following the suspension, Governor Okpebholo expressed his dissatisfaction with the security situation in Uwano Kingdom, especially considering the pivotal role of the Okumagbe in promoting peace and stability. He emphasized that traditional rulers must take responsibility for the welfare of their subjects and cooperate fully with the government in efforts to combat criminal activities.
The Governor also pointed out that the suspension was necessary due to the ongoing incidents of violence and the recent killing of a prominent palace chief. He reiterated the importance of upholding law and order and called on all traditional leaders to work closely with the state government and law enforcement agencies to address the growing threat of criminal activities in Edo State.
The recent surge in kidnappings in Uwano Kingdom and surrounding areas has raised alarm across the state. Many residents of Agenebode, the administrative headquarters of Etsako East, have expressed their concerns about the inability of the local authorities to curb the wave of abductions. With each new kidnapping, the fear among the people intensifies, and the community has become a hotbed of tensions.
Edo State has faced numerous security challenges in recent years, and the Governor’s response to the situation in Uwano Kingdom highlights the state’s proactive stance on tackling insecurity. In addition to the suspension of the Okumagbe, Governor Okpebholo has vowed to strengthen security measures across the state, particularly in rural and vulnerable communities. This includes an increase in police presence and the establishment of more security checkpoints to prevent further abductions.
While the suspension of Dr. George Egabor has been welcomed by some, it has also generated mixed reactions within the community. Some residents feel that the action is justified given the ongoing criminal activities, while others believe that traditional rulers should not be solely blamed for the rise in kidnappings. A few individuals have argued that the government should focus on more concrete solutions, such as improving policing and investing in community security infrastructure.
The situation in Uwano Kingdom is a reflection of the broader security challenges faced by Nigeria, where kidnapping and other violent crimes have become increasingly common in many parts of the country. Rural communities, in particular, are often left vulnerable due to limited access to law enforcement and the difficult terrain, which makes it harder for security agencies to effectively monitor and respond to criminal activities.
As the government works to address the issue, local communities are also being urged to take responsibility for their own security. Residents have been encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the authorities and to work with the police and security agencies to prevent further kidnappings. However, many people remain concerned about the effectiveness of these measures, given the high level of insecurity in the region.
In addition to the government’s actions, civil society organizations and advocacy groups have called for more attention to be paid to the root causes of kidnapping and other criminal activities in Nigeria. Poverty, unemployment, and lack of education are often cited as factors that contribute to the rise in criminal behavior, and many believe that addressing these underlying issues is key to achieving long-term peace and security in the country.
For now, the people of Uwano Kingdom and the broader Etsako East Local Government Area continue to live in fear, hoping that the suspension of their traditional ruler and the arrest of his secretary will lead to a greater focus on tackling insecurity in their community. While the government’s actions may provide some relief, it remains to be seen whether these efforts will have a lasting impact on the growing crisis of kidnapping and violence in the state.
