Concerns Rise Over Herdsmen Killings in Etsako East LG, Council Chairman Alerts on Ongoing Violence, Gov Okpebholo, Oshiomhole, Others Respond

By Ed Malik, A | ed@ddnewsonline.com | posted 25th february, 2025

The recent killings in Okpekpe community, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, have raised significant concerns among local authorities, residents, leaders and government. On Monday, February 24, 2025, two farmers, identified as Batemue Philip Ebo and Christopher Bello, were attacked and killed by suspected herdsmen while on their way to their farms.

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Hon. (Princess) Benedicta Attoh, the Executive Chairman of Etsako East Local Government Council, expressed deep concern over the escalating violence, describing the area as a “killing field.”

She emphasized the urgency for state intervention to prevent further loss of life and called for the deployment of security forces to patrol community bushes and farmlands.

The Council Chairman, in a statement issued on Monday through her Chief Press Secretary Benjamin Atu, condemned the killings. She frowned at the Federal Government’s ambivalent stance amid the herdsmen’s attacks which she said is costing too many lives.

“It is time to tackle this high-level insecurity by deploying military in parts of the bush and farm areas to give the farmers an immediate sense of safety in their farm lands.” she said.

Edo State Gov Monday Okpebholo

A statement on Tuesday by Fred Itua, chief press secretary to Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, said he has denounced the killing of two farmers, Batemue Philip Ebo and Christopher Bello, in Okpekpe community, Etsako East Local Government Area, by suspected herdsmen.

The CPS stated that the Governor has ordered the deployment of additional security personnel to the affected areas and the provision of support to the affected communities.

“We are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Edo State residents,” Governor Okpebholo said. “We will work closely with the security agencies, traditional leaders, and community members to achieve this goal.”

The Governor has also called on the people of Edo State to remain calm and to cooperate with the security agencies as they work to address the crisis.

“We urge everyone to remain calm and to go about their normal business,” Governor Okpebholo said. “We are doing everything possible to ensure that the situation is brought under control. “The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the incident and stated that security measures are being reviewed to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent future attacks.

On his part, former Edo State Governor and now distinguished senator representing Edo North Federal senatorial district, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has decried the killings in Okpekpe and expressed deep sorrow over the attack. He described the killings as “senseless and callous, highlighting the growing threat posed by criminal elements operating across interstate boundaries” and lamented that the “incident reflects a troubling escalation in banditry, which continues to put the lives and livelihoods of law-abiding citizens at risk.”

The senator commended the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo for its commitment to tackling insecurity through significant investments in security personnel and resources. He acknowledged the efforts made so far and pledged to collaborate with the state government to ensure that such tragic occurrences are prevented in the future.

Distinguished Senator Adams Oshiomhole, CON

“It is regrettable that Okpekpe town, which has become renowned as a peaceful sport destination for its annual 10km Road Race, is witnessing this very disturbing incident”, he said.

While extending his condolences to the families of the deceased, the people of Okpekpe, and the entire Edo North community, Oshiomhole reassured residents of his unwavering commitment to supporting security initiatives aimed at eradicating crime in the region. He vowed to utilize all available legislative and political channels to intensify the fight against banditry and ensure the safety of his constituents.

He called on security agencies to unravel the circumstances surrounding the killings and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book very soon to allay the fears that have gripped the community following this incident.

Further emphasizing the urgency of curbing this menace, Oshiomhole said that as the planting season approaches, the people of Edo North need assurances that they can go to their farms and return in peace without fear of harassment or unprovoked attack by criminal elements.

However, some notable personalities that spoke on condition of anonymity to DDNEWS, said, the issue is deeper than official sources would want to admit, as there’s undoubtedly a political undertone to it, requiring urgent action from government and security agencies.

According to a prominent social commentator who preferred anonymity, he said; “Do you know my grudge with these politicians? They are the owners of the cows in the various communities. They engage Fulanis as gatemen in their various homes. Recently, one of them did burial for his mum and about 45 cows were given to him. What did he do? He slaughtered 15 leaving 30 and engaged Fulani herdsmen to cater for them. This is the conflicting roles they play. Until they learn to say the truth, ignore them. It’s just that innocent poor peasants are the victims. That’s the painful part”, he said.

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Another community leader from Igiode, Agenebode, said, “my brother, this Fulani killings is becoming a plague and a serious threat to our community. Recall that in December, two of our vigilantes were killed and that became the game changer in our resolve to rise up to the challenge and secure our community”, he said.

This tragic event underscores the pressing need for enhanced security in rural communities to protect residents from such violent attacks.