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Edo State, like many regions in Nigeria, faces significant challenges with crime and public safety. Issues such as armed robbery, kidnapping, cult-related violence, cybercrime, and petty theft are widespread, creating fear among residents and undermining trust in law enforcement. Rural communities also struggle with farm invasions, herder-farmer conflicts, and land disputes, while urban centres are plagued by youth gangs and rising drug abuse.
Policing in Edo State has often been constrained by limited manpower, outdated equipment, inadequate funding, and insufficient community trust. The Nigeria Police Force operates under federal command, limiting local responsiveness. Meanwhile, citizens often feel disconnected from policing structures, leading to low cooperation and weak intelligence gathering.
The Gubernatorial Aspirant Forum (GAF) believes that security is the foundation of development, and proposes a multi-pronged approach to make Edo a safer, more secure state:
Establish community safety councils in every local government, involving traditional rulers, youth leaders, women’s groups, and local police.
Promote trust-building programs between citizens and security agencies through open forums, town halls, and joint problem-solving.
Invest in modern surveillance technology such as CCTV networks, drone monitoring in high-risk areas, and digital crime reporting platforms.
Provide training in cybercrime detection, forensics, and intelligence-led policing to equip officers for today’s security challenges.
Work with the Federal Government to strengthen police presence in Edo State while expanding the role of local security outfits and vigilante groups, ensuring they are properly trained, regulated, and accountable.
Push for reforms that allow greater state participation in policing, giving Edo more control over its security priorities.
Expand youth employment programs, vocational training, and entrepreneurship support to steer young people away from crime.
Address issues of drug abuse and cultism through school-based sensitization and rehabilitation programs.
Strengthen justice delivery by supporting speedy trials, prison reforms, and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
Deploy specialized patrols to protect farmers and rural dwellers from attacks and farm invasions.
Improve border security collaboration with neighbouring states to check the movement of arms and criminal gangs.
Through these measures, GAF envisions an Edo State where:
Citizens feel safe in their communities.
Businesses thrive without fear of extortion or insecurity.
Law enforcement is modern, trusted, and efficient.
Youth are empowered with opportunities, not driven to crime.
Security is not just about policing; it is about creating a society where people are protected, justice is accessible, and opportunities are abundant. GAF is committed to building that Edo State.
Strengthening Community Policing
Modernising Security Infrastructure
Youth Empowerment to Prevent Crime
Rural and Border Security Partnerships and Coordination
Rural and Border Security
Partnerships and Coordination
In summary:
GAF’s plan encompasses not only policing but also prevention, empowerment, technology, and justice reform, ensuring that Edo State becomes one of the safest and most secure states in Nigeria.
What’s at Stake Every child in Edo State deserves quality education that prepares them not just to pass exams, but to thrive in life, innovate for tomorrow, and contribute to the progress of our society. To build an education system that not only prepares students for exams but equips them with the skills, creativity, and …
Reforming the police system to ensure professionalism, respect for human rights, and community trust. Mechanisms will be strengthened for independent oversight, ensuring that misconduct, corruption, and abuse of power are addressed transparently.