The Edo State Government has procured eight bulletproof patrol trucks to bolster security operations across the state’s three senatorial districts, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, announced on Friday.
Speaking at a high-level security meeting convened by the House in Benin, Agbebaku revealed that two of the vehicles have already arrived. He urged residents to support security agencies with timely information, emphasizing that effective collaboration between citizens and security operatives is essential in tackling the rising wave of criminal activities.
“This meeting is aimed at strengthening security in Edo State and ensuring the safety of lives and property. I commend all security personnel for their efforts so far, and we expect even more proactive engagement,” Agbebaku said. “While complete eradication of crime may not be possible, our goal is to make Edo State safe enough for residents to feel secure. Security agencies are human, not magicians; they need our support and information to operate effectively.”
Following the session, the Chairperson of the House Committee on Security and Public Safety, Marie Oligbi-Edeko, highlighted that discussions centered on practical strategies to address emerging threats, including kidnappings and criminal activities linked to mining operations.
She stressed the importance of improved coordination among security agencies, with the police taking the lead in implementing a unified approach to law enforcement.
“The stakeholders also explored the role of neighbourhood watch groups and modern security technologies in enhancing public safety.
The committee will collaborate with security agencies to develop a comprehensive blueprint for tackling crime and identify areas where new legislation may be needed to prevent and detect criminal activities,” Oligbi-Edeko said.
The meeting was attended by representatives from the Police, Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), NDLEA, Edo Fire Service, and the Edo Forestry Commission, among others, reflecting a multi-agency approach to reinforcing security in the state.
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