Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has reacted to the killing of Alexander Omojiate, a part-time student of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), who was shot dead near the school’s main gate in Benin City.
Omojiate was reportedly killed on Sunday by gunmen suspected to be cultists.
In a statement issued on Monady by his Chief Press Secretary Patrick Ebojele, the governor described the incident as unacceptable and extended condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.
“The killing is an affront to human dignity, a threat to public safety, and an attack on everything this administration stands for,” the statement said.
Governor Okpebholo said the death of the student shows that more work remains in tackling cult-related violence in the state.
He assured residents and the victim’s family that the case would not be ignored and promised that those responsible would be brought to justice.
According to the statement, the Edo State Police Command has started investigations into the incident, while security agencies are working to identify and arrest the attackers.
“They may run, but they cannot hide forever,” the statement added.
The governor also spoke about efforts by his administration to address cult violence across Edo State.
He said the government had continued security operations in communities affected by cult clashes, leading to the arrest and prosecution of suspected cult members.
Okpebholo added that the state government was working with the Nigerian Police Force, the Department of State Services and the Nigerian Army to tackle criminal activities.
He also said the administration had involved traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups and civil society organisations in campaigns against cultism.
The governor appealed to members of the public with useful information about the killing to contact security agencies, assuring them that the information provided would be treated confidentially.
“Edo State will not be a sanctuary for criminals,” he said.
