Obaseki defies IG’s directives, orders Edo security network resumption

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has ordered the Edo State Security Network to resume operations amid escalating insecurity in the state—a directive that could put him at odds with the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who had previously suspended the vigilante group ahead of the state’s September 21 election.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the state’s Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, explained that the governor gave the directive after reviewing a surge in violent crime, particularly homicides, during a State Security Council meeting.

The statement read, “Governor Godwin Obaseki has directed members of the Edo State Security Network to resume their regular duties following the deteriorating security situation in the state. The Governor issued this directive after the State Security Council meeting on Monday, during which the council reviewed the recent rise in homicides and other security issues.”

The government expressed its intolerance for the current state of insecurity and charged the Edo State Commissioner of Police to restore order swiftly.

“Governor Obaseki reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property,” the statement added.

The resurgence of violent crime, including cult-related killings and land disputes, has led to heightened tensions across Edo, with numerous lives reportedly lost over the past three weeks.

Obaseki’s move to reactivate the vigilante force underscores his administration’s determination to tackle these security challenges head-on, despite potential opposition from federal authorities.