Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on Monday evening paid an on-the-spot assessment visit to Ekpoma following a devastating overnight fire that destroyed several shops built by the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA).
The governor described the incident as troubling and unacceptable, hinting that it forms part of a wider pattern of unrest and deliberate sabotage in the area.
Addressing traders at the scene, Okpebholo expressed sadness over the losses suffered, noting that recent developments in Ekpoma suggest coordinated criminal activities rather than isolated incidents.
“A lot has been happening in this town lately, and we are not folding our arms. We are tracking those behind these acts,” the governor declared.
He rejected speculation that the attack was linked to Fulani herdsmen, insisting that preliminary findings point to political actors bent on destabilising the community.
“They hide under false identities. These are not Fulani herdsmen; they are political elements. Arrests have already begun,” Okpebholo said.
The governor stressed that the destruction of the shops followed the same pattern as previous violent incidents in the area, warning that those responsible would be relentlessly pursued.
“Our people will not suffer in vain. No matter how powerful or connected they are, we will bring them to justice. I will not bow to pressure,” he assured.
In a firm statement underscoring his administration’s stance on security, Okpebholo added that personal relationships would not shield anyone from the law.
“Even if it were my own father involved in kidnapping or violence, he would face the full weight of the law. No one is above justice,” he said.
Earlier, two affected traders, Israel Ughulu and Aghemelo Austin Thomas, who spoke on behalf of the victims, said the traders were shocked and confused by the incident, insisting they had no involvement in any dispute.
Ughulu recounted that the fire broke out around midnight and spread with alarming speed.
“We received a call around 12 a.m. that the shops were burning. Within seconds, the entire building was engulfed. We stood helplessly until dawn watching everything burn, with no assistance,” he lamented.
The traders described the governor’s visit as historic, noting that a similar fire incident occurred nearly two years ago without any government official visiting the site.
In response, Okpebholo announced immediate government intervention, revealing that reconstruction work would begin within days.
“From now until Friday, construction will commence. After that, we will assess losses so you can return to your businesses without taking loans,” he promised, urging the traders to remain calm.
Also Read: EFCC Proposes ₦3.2bn for Cleaning, Meals and Fuel in 2026 Budget
The governor was accompanied by key government and security officials, including the Commissioner for Public Security and Safety, Hon. Ebea Festus Odianosen; the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika; and the Commander of the Nigerian Army’s 4 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmed Olatunboju.
See photos:
