Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has vowed to ensure that those responsible for the February killing of 21 farmers in Ovia South West Local Government Area are brought to justice.
During his visit to the affected communities, Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring lasting peace and security.
“From the testimonies I have heard and the investigations conducted, these are criminals who invade your farms to steal the crops you have laboured for. As a government, we will go after them. I assure you that you will live here in peace. Our actions will prove that lasting peace is coming. No individual should be more powerful than an entire community—burning houses and killing people just to steal farm produce. Wherever they are hiding, we will hunt them down, bring them to justice, and ensure that peace prevails,” Okpebholo said.
The killings followed a clash between cocoa farmers and alleged produce thieves in Gbelemotin.
The Edo State Police Command reported seven deaths, while a Government House statement said 22 persons were killed.
Okpebholo pledged to facilitate the establishment of a police outpost to prevent future attacks and enhance security.
He urged residents to remain calm and not take the law into their own hands, assuring them of government intervention.
“I understand your pain, but I urge you to take heart. Do not fight anyone or resort to violence. Maintain the peace as you have been doing. I assure you that we will work here so you can feel the presence of the government and experience real development,” Okpebholo added.
