Abudu, Edo – Festus Ese Omoruyi, an aspiring lawmaker and community advocate from Orhionmwon-East, has lauded Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his bold and proactive steps in bolstering the state’s security framework.

The commendation comes in response to the governor’s recent commissioning of over 300 motorbikes for security agencies across Edo’s three senatorial districts, a move described as a significant milestone in the fight against crime and insecurity in the state.

In a press release issued, Omoruyi hailed the initiative as a testament to Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to prioritizing the safety of Edo residents.

“Governor Okpebholo has once again shown that leadership is about action and impact,” Omoruyi stated.

“By empowering our security agencies with the tools to reach every corner of Edo State, including hard-to-access forest areas, the government has sent a strong message that our people’s safety comes first.”

The motorbikes, distributed to security operatives across Edo Central, Edo North, and Edo South, are intended to enhance rapid response capabilities, particularly in rural and forested areas where criminal activities such as kidnapping and cultism have been prevalent.

This initiative aligns with Governor Okpebholo’s broader security agenda, which includes equipping law enforcement with operational vehicles, advanced communication tools, and logistical support to combat crime effectively.

Omoruyi emphasized the importance of community involvement in sustaining these efforts, urging Edo residents to cooperate with security agencies by sharing credible intelligence.

“Security is a shared responsibility,” he noted, encouraging citizens to play an active role in ensuring the success of the governor’s initiatives.

The aspiring lawmaker also praised the governor’s foresight in ensuring the maintenance of the motorbikes, describing it as a reflection of “responsible governance and long-term planning.”

He highlighted that this approach would guarantee the sustained functionality of the equipment, thereby maximizing its impact on crime prevention.

“As a young leader committed to the progress of Edo State, I align myself with this vision for a safer and more secure environment where our communities can thrive without fear,” Omoruyi added, expressing his support for the governor’s efforts to transform Edo into a secure and prosperous state.

The commissioning of the motorbikes comes at a critical time for Edo State, where issues like cultism, kidnapping, and armed robbery have posed significant threats to public safety.

Since assuming office on November 12, 2024, Governor Okpebholo has prioritized security, implementing measures such as the “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers” campaign and the enactment of the “Secret Cult and Similar Activities Prohibition Law 2025.”

These efforts have led to notable successes, including the dismantling of kidnapping rings in Orhionmwon and Uhunmwonde LGAs and the recovery of over 5,000 illegal arms within the administration’s first six months.

Orhionmwon, where Omoruyi hails from, has faced additional challenges, including a prolonged electricity crisis that has left communities like Abudu in darkness for over nine years.

This power outage has exacerbated economic and social difficulties, making security interventions even more critical for the region’s development.

Omoruyi’s endorsement of the governor’s security initiative underscores a growing call for unity in addressing Edo’s challenges.

His appeal for community cooperation echoes Governor Okpebholo’s emphasis on involving traditional rulers, local vigilante groups, and youth organizations in crime prevention efforts.