Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has alleged that some political actors are behind the rising insecurity in Nigeria, urging them to stop what he described as attempts to destabilise the country.
He made the remark on Tuesday at Urhokpota Hall, Benin City, during the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign for the Edo South Senatorial District local government elections.
Okpebholo claimed that the increase in kidnappings, banditry and terrorism was being used as a political tool against President Bola Tinubu’s administration, warning that such actions would only harm governance and national stability.
He maintained that no political ambition could be achieved through violence or chaos, insisting that the focus should remain on peace and development.
“There is no vacancy in Aso Rock. Even if all of us are affected, it changes nothing. What is happening is being fuelled by the opposition,” he said.
The governor argued that worsening insecurity would make governance impossible, adding that those behind such actions were undermining their own future leadership prospects.
“They have failed. If you destroy the system, who exactly are you going to govern? Let there be peace so leaders can deliver,” he added.
Okpebholo also restated his support for President Tinubu, saying ongoing federal policies, including subsidy removal, were already producing visible development outcomes across states, including Edo.
He expressed confidence in APC candidates ahead of the local government elections, describing the polls as a stepping stone toward stronger party dominance ahead of 2027.
Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa praised the administration’s youth inclusion policies, noting that more young people were being given leadership roles in government.
APC State Chairman Jarrett Tenebe also urged party candidates to extend government achievements to rural communities and ensure effective representation at the grassroots level.