Security experts raise concerns over conflicting statements on the status of Edo security Network, bemoan lack of coordination from new administration

Two weeks into his tenure, newly sworn-in Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has come under scrutiny after a statement from his office caused confusion over the status of the Edo State Security Network.

On Friday, Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary, announced that the governor had lifted the suspension imposed on the security outfit by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) before the September 21 governorship election. However, it was immediately revealed that the suspension had already been lifted by the previous administration on October 7 during a security council meeting held at Government House.

At the time, former Governor Godwin Obaseki had clarified, “The IG was clear; people who are not part of the national security structure cannot take part in elections. Now that the election is over, as Governor and Chief Security Officer of Edo State I have directed that the vigilante corps will immediately resume their beats according to the law.”

The conflicting statement has drawn criticism from analysts and security experts, who argue it demonstrates a lack of coordination within the new administration.

Security Challenges Persist

Since the inauguration of the new government, Edo State has experienced a wave of cult-related violence and criminal attacks. Security experts have questioned why the state’s security corps had not been immediately mobilized to address these challenges.

Bright Amadi, a Benin-based security consultant, described the situation as troubling. “Knowing the status of the state’s own security network should have been a top priority, especially given the rising insecurity,” he said.

Policy Reversals Spark Criticism

This latest incident follows another policy misstep earlier in the week when the governor announced free bus services across the state. The policy, initially welcomed by the public, was withdrawn less than 24 hours later after operators of the Edo City Transport Service reportedly informed the government that the directive was impractical and unsustainable.

The backtracking has fuelled concerns about the administration’s decision-making processes.

Political Reactions

Opposition figures have also weighed in on the issue. Barrister Anthony Ehilebo, a PDP chieftain from Igueben, criticized the administration’s handling of security policy, describing it as indicative of a lack of preparation.

“Government is supposed to be a continuum,” Ehilebo said. “Isn’t it surprising that the new administration seems unaware of existing policies? Playing politics with the Edo State Security Network during the campaign by labelling it Obaseki’s private army has now backfired, as rising insecurity and the unacceptable loss of lives has forced the APC’s interim governor to rely on the same structure.”

Ehilebo also took aim at the administration’s perceived lack of focus. “Instead of doing the hard work of governance, they are preoccupied with photo-ops and witch hunts. This interim government, as it is now called in Edo, has proven already to be a confused calamity. Thankfully, we have approached the courts, and we believe the judiciary will save Edo State from this six-month APC misadventure.”

Analysts Urge Strategic Caution

As the Okpebholo administration navigates its early days, analysts have emphasized the need for strategic planning and clear communication to avoid further missteps.

“Leadership is not about quick wins but about carefully thought-out decisions that prioritize the welfare of the people,” Amadi said. “Edo State needs urgent attention to security and governance, and there’s no room for trial and error.”

Edygrin:
Instead of states and regions creating all this unnecessary security networks that is not even constitutional why not amend the constitution to grant states right to have their own police. We can have federal and state police, just like it's done in the US who we're copying almost everything from.

Chinjo2:
By the time Monday Okpebholo realises that Oshiomhole and Shaibu doesn't wish I'm well, I just hope it will not be too late.
He is starting his administration on a vindictive note as if he has a personal scores to settle with Obaseki.
He should remember that Oshiomhole had vowed that a minority where he comes from can never be governor of Edo state while Shaibu fell out with Obaseki because he wanted to be governor and Obaseki said no, let the governorship go to Esan people.
Okpebholo should sit down and get experts to guide him on the gains of Obaseki while focusing on addressing the areas Obaseki didn't do well.
If he thinks he can succeed the way he is going by dismantling all the good things Obaseki has built in the last 8 years, he will end up not achieving anything.
Oshiomhole doesnt want anybody to beat his achievements in Edo state and that's why he was fighting Obaseki.
Monday Okpebholos advisers should advise him properly

AuItsene:

So so silly.

Chinjo2:
By the time Monday Okpebholo realises that Oshiomhole and Shaibu doesn't wish I'm well, I just hope it will not be too late.
He is starting his administration on a vindictive note as if he has a personal scores to settle with Obaseki.
He should remember that Oshiomhole had vowed that a minority where he comes from can never be governor of Edo state while Shaibu fell out with Obaseki because he wanted to be governor and Obaseki said no, let the governorship go to Esan people.
Okpebholo should sit down and get experts to guide him on the gains of Obaseki while focusing on addressing the areas Obaseki didn't do well.
If he thinks he can succeed the way he is going by dismantling all the good things Obaseki has built in the last 8 years, he will end up not achieving anything.
Oshiomhole doesnt want anybody to beat his achievements in Edo state and that's why he was fighting Obaseki.
Monday Okpebholos advisers should advise him properly

Chinjo2:
By the time Monday Okpebholo realises that Oshiomhole and Shaibu doesn't wish I'm well, I just hope it will not be too late.
He is starting his administration on a vindictive note as if he has a personal scores to settle with Obaseki.
He should remember that Oshiomhole had vowed that a minority where he comes from can never be governor of Edo state while Shaibu fell out with Obaseki because he wanted to be governor and Obaseki said no, let the governorship go to Esan people.
Okpebholo should sit down and get experts to guide him on the gains of Obaseki while focusing on addressing the areas Obaseki didn't do well.
If he thinks he can succeed the way he is going by dismantling all the good things Obaseki has built in the last 8 years, he will end up not achieving anything.
Oshiomhole doesnt want anybody to beat his achievements in Edo state and that's why he was fighting Obaseki.
Monday Okpebholos advisers should advise him properly

kedeojo:
Mumu talk, Oshiomole layed a foundation upon which Obaseki should have built on and only adjust or add to it. You can't compare Obaseki's eight years with Oshiomole own. We Edo all withness quality and durable roads with drainage system, total reconstruction of schools and all general hospitals in the state were rehabilitated. His effort to tackle flood in Benin through the Benin water storm effort started yielding result until Obaseki came in 2016 and stop it. The transportation system code name comrade bus was effective but almost grounded and reduced to carrying of people for wedding, obituary and church purposes on hire from the government, against its initial purpose. Most of you who just talk, are igbos who is filled with hatred and bitterness toward Moslem northerners, Yorubas and other people like Oshiomole in Apc but same your late brother was crying for the party to zone the ticket to them in last Apc presidential primaries.