FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
Edo State government has demolished a house belonging to a septuagenarian, Karimu Audu, over his alleged involvement in kidnapping.
Audu’s property was demolished in Eshioriri-Erah, Owan East Local Government Area, Edo North, for allegedly acting as an informant to kidnappers.
The latest demolition is in continuation of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s resolve to rid the state of kidnappers and criminals.
The state has intensified its crackdown on individuals aiding kidnappers, as its task force demolished another property linked to criminal activities.
Apart from acting as an informant to kidnappers, the suspect hosted them overnight and supplied them with food.
Addressing journalists at the scene, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Affairs, Akhere Paul emphasised government’s zero tolerance for complicity in kidnapping.
“We are here because of conspiracy. He has been working with kidnappers in the forest. Let this serve as a warning to everyone—if you see something, say something. If you conspire with criminals, your day will come, just like today has come for him to face the law.
“We are here to enforce the law. It is not my wish to see people’s properties destroyed, but we must restore peace. Kidnapping must stop.
“With three properties already demolished, let this be a lesson. Anyone considering aiding kidnappers should reconsider immediately,” Paul said.
Eshioriri-Erah, a border community between Owan East and Esan West Local Government Areas, is known for its vast forest connecting Edo North and Central Senatorial Districts, a terrain often exploited by criminal elements.
The Edo State government has vowed to sustain its offensive against kidnappers and their accomplices, warning that more properties linked to criminal activities will be demolished as part of ongoing efforts to secure the state.
