Okpebholo suspends traditional ruler over ‘incessant kidnapping’ in Edo community

Monday Okpebholo, governor of Edo, has suspended George Egabor, the Okumagbe of Uwano kingdom in Etsako east LGA.

In a statement on Monday, Fred Itua, Okpebholo’s chief press secretary, said the monarch was suspended indefinitely over recurring kidnappings and killings within his domain.

The spokesperson added that Peter Omiogbemhi, secretary to the traditional ruler, has been arrested by the relevant authorities after an incident that claimed the life of palace chief John Ikhamate.

“Already, his secretary, Chief Peter Omiogbemhi, has since been arrested by the relevant authorities, following a recent incident that led to the death of a Palace Chief, Late John Ikhamate,” the statement added.

There has been an uptick in attacks across the country in recent times.

On March 16, sixteen hunters of northern extraction travelling from Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital, were attacked and killed by members of a local vigilance group in the state.

The travellers were assaulted and lynched after some vigilantes accused them of being kidnappers. However, 10 were rescued with two injured victims taken to the hospital.

President Bola Tinubu subsequently ordered the police and security agencies to swiftly investigate and bring the suspects to justice.

The Edo police command also announced the arrest of 14 suspects in connection with the incident.