By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
The Edo State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, has called for calm and constructive engagement following a protest in Ekpoma on Saturday, January 10, which led to a significant disruption of vehicular movement.
In a statement released to the press, the Commissioner clarified that while the state government recognizes the constitutional right of citizens to express concerns, the sensitive nature of security requires coordination and calm rather than actions that undermine public order.
Prince Afegbua suggested that the act of blocking major roads and disrupting movement is counterproductive to professional security operations.
He noted that such activities do not aid law enforcement but may inadvertently expose residents to further risks or be exploited by criminal elements looking to capitalize on the chaos.
The Commissioner encouraged citizens to resist the urge to participate in "unstructured actions" that could distract security agencies from their primary duty of protecting the public.
Highlighting the administration’s track record, Afegbua stated that since assuming office, Governor Monday Okpebholo has remained highly responsive to the safety concerns of Edo residents. He maintained that effective security solutions are best achieved through intelligence sharing and community collaboration.
The Commissioner explained that the administration’s current strategy is built around proactive measures, including the strengthening of the Edo Security Corps, neighborhood watch initiatives, and continuous engagement with traditional institutions and neighboring states.
The Commissioner further emphasized that these established platforms remain the most viable channels for residents to report security-related concerns and provide useful information. By working through these formal channels, Afegbua pointed out that residents can contribute more meaningfully to keeping their communities safe without compromising the peace and movement of the general public.
In the press statement, Prince Afegbua reassured the people of Ekpoma and the entire state that security strategies are being continuously reviewed and strengthened. He reiterated Governor Okpebholo’s "strong commitment" to making Edo State safer for all through dialogue and sustained engagement.
The Commissioner urged all residents to remain law-abiding and supportive of the security operatives who continue to work tirelessly to protect lives and property.
