Okpebholo Faults Tinubu Critics, Urges Governors to Act on Security

By Rosemary Okoduwa

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called on the 36 state governors to assume greater responsibility of addressing security challenges in their respective states, stressing that the protection of lives and property is a shared duty that requires commitment at all levels of government.

Governor Okpebholo made the call during an interactive session with stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held over the weekend at the Okaijesan Town Hall in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area of Edo State.

He said tackling insecurity across the country requires collective action, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu cannot be physically present in every state to address local security concerns.

According to him, governors must take ownership of security within their jurisdictions by working closely with security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the safety of their people.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu cannot come to Edo or visit all the states at the same time because he is just one person. If I protect Edo State and every other governor protects their states, insecurity will become a thing of the past,” he said.

Governor Okpebholo described those who blame President Tinubu alone for the nation’s security challenges as unfair, arguing that they fail to acknowledge the constitutional and moral responsibilities of state governments in maintaining peace and order.

He criticised opposition politicians, particularly those who previously served as vice president or state governors, for attacking the current administration over insecurity, questioning the measures they took to address similar challenges while in office.
“Many governors are working hard to solve security challenges across the nation. Governors should take charge of their various states and address the security situation. This is what is called sub-national responsibility, and it will help solve the problem,” the governor added.

Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening security across Edo State through sustained collaboration with security agencies, community leaders and other stakeholders, noting that a secure environment remains fundamental to economic growth, investment and the well-being of citizens.