By Peter.
Construction workers on the Auchi-Igarra-Ibillo Road in Akoko-Edo LGA, Edo State, narrowly escaped a kidnap attempt by suspected bandits on Wednesday evening, November 26, 2025—just hours after Governor Monday Okpebholo launched a joint task force against kidnappers.
The Near-Miss Incident
Around 6 p.m., armed assailants targeted workers near Sasaro—a notorious hotspot for abductions—along the ongoing road project. A senior site official revealed the workers were hesitant to resume due to insecurity but proceeded after the contractor bolstered armed escorts, including soldiers.
The bandits were repelled by the security detail in a brief exchange of gunfire. No abductions or injuries occurred, but the scare underscores persistent threats in the area.
The official, speaking anonymously, said: “The suspected kidnappers were repelled by soldiers attached to the workers.”
This incident followed Okpebholo’s Wednesday declaration of “war on kidnappers,” mobilizing a multi-agency force for proactive ops.
Government Denies Police Gun Smuggling Allegations
In a separate development, Edo’s Chief Press Secretary Fred Itua on Friday dismissed reports linking a Government House officer to the unlawful transfer of intercepted firearms from Kogi State as “misleading” and “entirely false.”
The claims implicated Inspector Paul Elimwenga in smuggling seized weapons. Itua clarified:
“Inspector Elimwenga is not a Government House officer but deployed personnel from Special Protection Unit (SPU) Base 5, Ogida, Benin City—to a VIP residence in GRA, near Government House.”
He added Elimwenga abandoned his rifle at his private home and absconded to Warri, Delta State. Security agencies are pursuing him for prosecution.
Itua reaffirmed Okpebholo’s commitment:
“No individual, regardless of affiliation, will be shielded… Our security agencies continue to work in close coordination.”
The government urged calm and law-abiding behavior amid ongoing threats.
Edo’s dual crises highlight the state’s insecurity challenges—swift responses are underway, but residents demand sustained action.
#EdoKidnapAttempt #AuchiRoadProject #OkpebholoSecurity #EdoGunSmuggling
