The Edo State Government has expressed shock over the abduction and killing of Dr. Abu Ibrahim Babatunde in Auchi, describing the incident as unfortunate, painful, and regrettable.
In a statement issued by the Office of the Governor, the government assured residents that the tragic incident would not weaken its resolve to sustain and intensify the fight against kidnapping and other forms of criminality across the state.
The government acknowledged that kidnapping remains a serious and worrisome security challenge, stressing that significant investments and interventions have been deployed to curb the menace. It noted that without these efforts, the situation could have been far worse than what is currently experienced.
According to the statement, the Okpebholo-led administration has remained steadfast in addressing security concerns, adding that the peaceful and largely crime-free yuletide celebrations across Edo State were a clear indication of its commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property.
The government described Dr. Babatunde’s abduction and killing as a setback to its ongoing security efforts, particularly at a time when progress had been recorded in reducing kidnapping incidents.
It revealed that ahead of the yuletide season, operatives of Operation Rescue carried out extensive bush-combing exercises across Auchi, Agenebode, Okpella, Fugar, and parts of Owan, leading to the discovery and destruction of several kidnappers’ hideouts.
The operations also resulted in multiple arrests, with suspects currently undergoing prosecution. Some kidnappers were neutralized during exchanges of gunfire in forested areas.
The government stated that these operations have significantly reduced kidnapping to its lowest level in recent times and reaffirmed its determination to make Edo State unsafe for criminals.
While calling for public support, the government urged residents to cooperate with security agencies, especially through timely intelligence sharing. It emphasized that security is a collective responsibility and cannot be left to government alone.
The state government appealed to residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movements within their communities to law enforcement agencies.
Expressing sympathy to the family of the late Dr. Abu Ibrahim Babatunde, the government assured the public that those responsible for the crime would be tracked down and brought to justice.
“The perpetrators of this dastardly act will not escape the long arm of the law,” the statement concluded.