Govenor Okpebholo Lifts Ban on Edo State Security Corps
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced the lifting of the suspension on the Edo State Security Corps (ESN), which was imposed in September 2024.
The decision, made public through a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, reflects the governor’s commitment to strengthening the state’s security framework. By reinstating the security corps, the state government aims to enhance its overall security architecture and ensure the safety of its citizens.
The suspension had been initially ordered by the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, ahead of the September 21 Governorship Election. The suspension was based on the constitutional responsibility of the Nigeria Police Force to manage election security, with support from other agencies within the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES). With the successful completion of the election, the Edo State government has deemed it necessary to reactivate the ESN.
Governor Okpebholo’s decision is seen as part of a broader effort to improve safety across the state. The reinstatement of the Security Corps is expected to strengthen the local security forces and provide better protection for the people of Edo State. The governor’s office has outlined that all returning officers should report to the State Corps Commander or their respective zonal offices to facilitate a smooth transition and ensure the effective deployment of the ESN.
The move underscores the Edo State government’s dedication to maintaining law and order, with a focus on citizen security. Secretary to the Edo State Government, Umar Musa Ikilor, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety of the state’s residents, marking a renewed push to bolster the state’s security apparatus.