Okpebholo pledges to rebuild shops destroyed by Ekpoma fire

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has pledged that the state government will rebuild the shops destroyed by fire at the Ekpoma Police Division.

The governor gave the assurance during a visit to the police station to inspect the damage to the shops built by the Police Officers’ Wives Association, promising swift intervention and strengthened security measures.

Speaking to traders at the scene, Okpebholo expressed deep concern over the incident, saying recent developments in Ekpoma suggested organised attacks.

“A lot of things are happening here now. But we are going after them,” he said.

He rejected claims that Fulani herdsmen were responsible, insisting the violence was politically motivated.

“They are killing our people, with the name they are Fulanis. They are not Fulanis. They are political elements. We have started arresting them,” he stated.

Assuring residents of safety, the governor said no individual would be shielded from justice.

“There’s nothing to fear. Our people will not suffer for nothing. No matter how highly placed they are, we will go after all of them.

“Even if it were my own father involved in kidnapping, violence, or destruction, he would be brought to justice. No one is above the law,” he warned.

Okpebholo, who was accompanied by senior security and government officials, later announced that reconstruction would commence within the week.

“Between now and Friday, they will come and start building this place for you people. After the building, we will take inventory so that you will return to your shops without going to borrow from the bank,” he said.

Two affected traders, Mr Israel Ughulu and Prof Aghemelo Austin Thomas, said the fire broke out around midnight and spread rapidly, leaving them unable to salvage their belongings.

“At about twelve midnight, we got a call that our shops were on fire. In less than 30 seconds, the whole building went down. We watched our properties burn until about 5 a.m. without any help,” Ughulu said.

The incident followed unrest in Ekpoma after a protest over insecurity was hijacked by hoodlums, leading to attacks on traders, livestock and the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II.

The Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, confirmed that one person was shot by a soldier, adding that the matter had been referred to military authorities.