Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on Monday evening visited Ekpoma to inspect the destruction caused by an overnight fire that gutted several shops built by the Police Officers’ Wives Association. He assured affected traders of swift government support and stronger security measures.
Naija News reports that the governor described the incident as troubling, linking it to what he termed a recurring pattern of violence and sabotage in the area.
Addressing shop owners at the scene, Okpebholo said he was deeply saddened by the incident, noting that recent developments in Ekpoma point to coordinated attacks.
“Many things are happening here, but we are already going after those responsible,” he said.
The governor rejected claims that Fulani herdsmen were behind the attack, insisting instead that political actors were responsible.
“They say they are Fulani herdsmen, but they are not. These are political elements. We have already begun arresting them,” he stated.
He warned that the burning of the shops followed the same pattern as earlier incidents and vowed that those behind it would face justice, regardless of their status.
“There is nothing to fear. Our people will not suffer in vain. No matter how influential they are, we will pursue them. I will not listen to anyone when the time comes,” he said.
In a strong warning, the governor added, “Even if it were my own father involved in kidnapping, violence or destruction, he would be held accountable. No one is above the law.”
Earlier, two shop owners, Israel Ughulu and Aghemelo Austin Thomas, speaking on behalf of the victims, said they felt unfairly targeted over an issue they knew nothing about.
Ughulu explained that the fire broke out around midnight and spread quickly.
“Just after midnight, we received a call that our shops were on fire. In less than 30 seconds, the entire building was engulfed. We watched our goods burn until about 5 a.m. without any assistance,” he said.
The traders described the governor’s visit as unprecedented, noting that a similar incident occurred about two years ago without such high-level government attention.
Addressing the affected traders, Okpebholo announced that reconstruction of the destroyed shops would begin within the week and urged them to remain calm.
“Between now and Friday, work will commence on rebuilding this place. After that, we will take inventory so you can return to your shops without having to borrow from banks,” he assured.
The governor was accompanied by senior government and security officials, including the Commissioner for Public Security and Safety, Hon. Ebea Festus Odianosen; the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika; and the Commander of the 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Olatunboju.
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