Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has declared
that Nigeria will not surrender to criminal elements, insisting that the
country does not belong to kidnappers and other perpetrators of violent crimes.
The governor made the statement during a visit to
LoveWorld City, Christ Embassy, in Benin City, where he appealed to worshippers
to pray for an end to kidnapping, cultism, and other security challenges
confronting the nation.
Addressing the congregation, Okpebholo emphasized the
need for collective prayers and national unity, urging Nigerians to seek divine
intervention for peace, economic recovery, and good governance.
He also called on the church to pray for President
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asking God to grant him wisdom, strength, and guidance in
leading the country through its current challenges.
According to the governor, Nigeria can overcome its
security and economic difficulties through a combination of prayer, effective
leadership, and the collective efforts of citizens.
"I am confident that with the prayers of God's
people and our collective determination, the nation will overcome these
challenges," he said.
The officiating pastor, Moses Olayemi, led special
prayers for Nigeria's leaders, the economy, and communities across the country.
He also commended the Edo State Government for ongoing infrastructure projects
and developmental initiatives being carried out across the state.
The governor's remarks come amid growing concerns over
insecurity in several parts of Nigeria despite continued military operations
and government interventions aimed at tackling terrorism, banditry, kidnapping,
and other violent crimes.
In recent months, armed groups have increasingly
targeted schools and vulnerable communities, raising concerns about the safety
of students, teachers, and residents.
In May 2026, gunmen reportedly abducted schoolchildren
and teachers during attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo
State. Similar incidents were also recorded in Borno State, where dozens of
pupils were taken by criminal elements.
Responding to those incidents, President Tinubu, in
his Children's Day message, assured affected families that the government
remained committed to securing the release of all abducted victims.
More recently, on June 3, 2026, Mrs. Olaide Adegoke
John-Paul, sister of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and her
12-year-old twin sons were abducted in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The victims were later rescued by security operatives,
providing a measure of relief amid growing concerns over kidnapping activities
in parts of the country.
Governor Okpebholo's call for prayers reflects the
growing demand for stronger collaboration between government, security
agencies, religious institutions, and citizens in addressing the country's
security challenges and restoring public confidence.
He reiterated that criminal elements must not be
allowed to dictate the future of the nation and expressed optimism that Nigeria
will emerge stronger through unity, vigilance, and sustained efforts to combat
insecurity.
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