Governor Okpebholo Condemns Airport Road Market Kidnapping, Orders Immediate Security Response

BENIN CITY, EDO STATE — June 14, 2026

Kingsley Ohens reporting

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has strongly condemned the reported kidnapping incident at the popular Vegetable Market along Airport Road in Benin City, describing the attack as unacceptable and a grave threat to the safety and well-being of residents.

The governor, in a swift response to the incident, directed the Edo State Commissioner of Police to immediately launch a coordinated and comprehensive investigation aimed at securing the safe rescue of the victims and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

Governor Okpebholo emphasized that his administration remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state, warning that the government would not tolerate any criminal activity capable of undermining public peace and security.

According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, the governor expressed deep concern over the incident and assured residents that all relevant security agencies have been mobilized to ensure a prompt and effective response.

The governor further called on residents of Benin City and other parts of Edo State to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by promptly reporting suspicious movements and activities to the nearest police station or relevant authorities.

He noted that timely and credible information from members of the public remains critical to the success of ongoing security operations and the broader effort to rid the state of criminal elements.

Reaffirming his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on insecurity, Governor Okpebholo assured citizens that the government would pursue every available legal and security measure to ensure that those responsible for the kidnapping are apprehended and made to face the full consequences of their actions under the law.

The governor also reiterated his commitment to strengthening security architecture across Edo State to guarantee the protection of residents and sustain the peaceful environment necessary for development and economic growth.