Tragedy in Edo: Toddler crushed to death as Okpebholo disbands Safety Team

By Jethro Ibileke

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has wielded the big stick, ordering the indefinite suspension of the Public Safety Response Team (PSRT) following a shocking tragedy that claimed the life of a two-year-old girl.

The team, led by Kelly Okungbowa, faced mounting accusations of extortion, harassment, and reckless misconduct—but the final straw came when their reckless actions led to the horrific crushing of a toddler and left her mother severely injured.

In a strongly worded statement on Friday, Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, confirmed the government’s zero tolerance for lawlessness and vowed that a full-scale review of the team’s structure, recruitment, and operations would be conducted to restore professionalism, fairness, and respect for human dignity.

Governor Okpebholo, visibly shaken by the tragedy, expressed deep sorrow over the child’s death, describing it as devastating and unbearable.

He extended his heartfelt condolences to the grieving family, assuring them that justice will be served.

This latest incident has sent shockwaves across Edo State, raising urgent questions about the conduct of government-backed security outfits and the price of unchecked power on the streets.