Edo Governor, Monday Okpebholo has condemned the killing of a part-time student of the University of Benin, identified as Alexander Omojiate, describing the incident as an attack on the values and principles of his administration.
According to earlier reports, the student was shot dead on Sunday by yet-to-be-identified gunmen suspected to be cultists.
In a statement issued on May 11, 2026, by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr Patrick Ebojele, in Benin City, the governor described the killing as “completely unacceptable.”
Okpebholo said the brazen and cold-blooded murder, carried out on a day considered sacred by many, was an affront to human dignity and a threat to public safety. He also extended condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the deceased, noting that his life was “violently and senselessly cut short.”
The governor disclosed that the Edo State Police Command has launched an investigation into the incident, assuring residents that security agencies are working tirelessly to track down those responsible.
According to him, the perpetrators “cannot hide forever,” while assuring the victim’s family and the public that the matter would not be ignored.
He further reaffirmed his administration’s determination to eliminate cultism across the state.
“Since assuming office, the administration has taken deliberate and sustained steps to confront the cult menace head-on.
“These efforts include sustained security operations in cult-prone communities across the state, resulting in the arrest and prosecution of numerous suspected cultists.
“Close collaboration between the Edo State Government and the Nigerian Police Force, the Department of State Services, and the Nigerian Army to disrupt and dismantle cult networks operating within the state.
“Community engagement initiatives involving traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, and civil society organisations in the fight against cult violence; and strong support for the rehabilitation and reintegration of young persons vulnerable to cult recruitment.
“Edo State will not be a sanctuary for criminals. Those who carry arms and terrorise innocent people will face the full consequences of the law,” he vowed.
Okpebholo urged members of the public with useful information about the killing to contact the police or any relevant security agency, assuring that all information shared would be treated with strict confidentiality.
He also reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety of communities across the state, stressing that no family should suffer the pain of losing a loved one to senseless cult violence.