Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of victims abducted across various parts of Nigeria, insisting that political power cannot be achieved through kidnapping, banditry, or other criminal activities.
The governor made the appeal on Tuesday while inaugurating the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign for the Edo South Senatorial District local government elections at Urhokpota Hall in Benin City.
Speaking against the growing spate of kidnappings nationwide, Okpebholo warned against using insecurity as a tool to undermine governance or hinder the country’s development. He stressed that political aspirations should never be pursued through violence, intimidation, or criminal acts.
According to him, those seeking political office should not distract President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from delivering on his mandate, adding that abducting innocent citizens would not translate into electoral success.
The governor expressed concern over the recent abductions of students, teachers, and other Nigerians in different parts of the country, including Oyo State, and urged their captors to free them without delay. He emphasized that insecurity must not be allowed to derail efforts aimed at improving citizens’ welfare.
Okpebholo also praised President Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies, noting that the policy had increased financial resources available to states for infrastructure and developmental projects.
Reaffirming his support for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections, the governor declared that Edo State would continue to back the President’s administration and its Renewed Hope Agenda.
He further highlighted what he described as a new political direction for Edo State, explaining that the APC had deliberately selected young and energetic candidates for the upcoming local government elections.
According to the governor, the party is committed to empowering capable youths and creating opportunities for them to play active roles in governance at the grassroots level.
Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa commended the administration’s efforts toward youth inclusion, noting that young people have been entrusted with key positions in government.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the APC’s Edo South Senatorial District candidates. They include Ogbeide Ihama for the senatorial seat, Paddy Iyamu for Oredo Federal Constituency, and Omorede Igbinedion for Ovia Federal Constituency, among others.