Edo Demolishes Another Property Linked To Kidnapping
By Osehobo Ofure, Benin City
Edo State Government has demolished another property allegedly linked with kidnapping in the state.
DAYLIGHT reports that one property was demolished last week at Ekpoma Esan West local government area.
This time the property demolished is located at Eshioriri-Erah, in Owan West local government area and owned by Karimu Audu, a septuagenarian accused of acting as an informant for kidnappers operating in the area .
Addressing journalists at the scene of the demolition, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Affairs, Mr Akhere Paul, emphasised the government’s zero tolerance for complicity in kidnapping.
“We are here because of conspiracy. He has been working with kidnappers in the forest. Let this serve as a warning to everyone—if you see something, say something. If you conspire with criminals, your day will come, just like today has come for him to face the law, ” he said.
Commander of the Edo State Task Force, SP Michael Anetor, said, “We are here to enforce the law. It is not my wish to see people’s properties destroyed, but we must restore peace. Kidnapping must stop. With three properties already demolished, let this be a lesson. Anyone considering aiding kidnappers should reconsider immediately.”
Asked about his involvement Mr Audu denied all the allegations, insisting that his dealings with herders were legitimate and in line with his role in the community.
“They said I give information. I don’t. I am the chairman of a this community committee. My job is to collect annual payments and bring them for sharing. I don’t give information to anyone; I simply do my committee work,” he said.
Eshioriri-Erah, a border community between Owan East and Esan West local government areas, is known for its vast forest connecting Edo North and Edo Central Senatorial Districts, a terrain often exploited by criminal elements.
The Edo State Government has vowed to sustain its offensive against kidnappers and their accomplices, warning that more properties linked to criminal activities will be demolished as part of ongoing efforts to secure the state.
