The Edo State Government has strongly condemned the abduction of 90-year-old Pa Joseph Iduoriyekemwen by unknown gunmen, describing the incident as reprehensible and an affront to the peace and security of the state. The government, in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, expressed concern that an elderly father and grandfather had become the target of such a crime.
The government urged members of the public to avoid politicising the incident or making unsubstantiated allegations of government involvement, saying such claims could distract security agencies from efforts to secure the victim’s safe release. Governor Monday Okpebholo has directed all relevant security agencies to intensify operations, work in synergy and deploy every lawful resource to rescue Pa Joseph and reunite him with his family within the next 24 hours.
According to the statement, the governor had remained committed to protecting lives and property across the state and had invested significantly in strengthening Edo’s security architecture. The abduction is seen as a direct challenge to the collective resolve of the government and people of Edo, particularly coming shortly after four kidnappers were convicted by the Special Court established to prosecute kidnapping cases and sentenced to death for offences involving murder and abduction.
The government described the recent convictions as expected to serve as a deterrent to criminal elements, stressing that the latest incident would not intimidate or discourage the administration. The government assured that the perpetrators would be hunted down, apprehended and prosecuted in accordance with the law. Governor Okpebholo insisted that Edo must not become a safe haven for kidnappers and other criminal elements threatening the lives and livelihoods of residents.
The administration would continue to strengthen security coordination and take necessary lawful measures to dismantle criminal networks and enable residents to live, work and move freely without fear. The government also appealed to anyone with credible information that could assist in locating Pa Joseph or identifying his abductors to immediately provide such information to the appropriate security authorities.
The government assured the victim’s family and residents of the state that every available resource was being mobilised towards securing his safe rescue and bringing those responsible to justice. The incident has raised concerns about the security situation in Edo State, with many calling for improved measures to protect residents from kidnapping and other crimes.
The Edo State Government's directive for a 24-hour rescue operation highlights the seriousness with which it views the incident. The government's commitment to strengthening security coordination and taking lawful measures to dismantle criminal networks is expected to help prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of residents.
Key points
- The Edo State Government has ordered a 24-hour rescue operation for 90-year-old Pa Joseph Iduoriyekemwen.
- The government has assured that perpetrators will be hunted down, apprehended and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
- The incident has raised concerns about the security situation in Edo State, with many calling for improved measures to protect residents from kidnapping and other crimes.
