Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, has said that criminals will have no hiding place in the state under his administration.

The governor spoke in Benin on Wednesday at the commissioning of 300 motorbikes, which his administration donated to security agencies to enhance security across the state.

At the event, which was attended by the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, and the Commander of the 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Oduyebo, the governor said the motorbikes were designed to support security agencies in accessing hard-to-reach terrains, particularly forest areas where criminal elements often seek refuge.

He said, “We promised our people during the campaign that we would fight insecurity and restore peace to every part of Edo State. Today, we are fulfilling that promise. These bikes will be deployed across the senatorial districts and will help security agencies reach areas where vehicles cannot go.”

He continued: “Let me be clear, criminals must leave Edo State. These motorbikes, along with other security technologies we are deploying, will make it very difficult for them to operate. We are not just equipping the system; we are also enhancing it. We are maintaining it. These bikes will be properly serviced and supported to ensure continuous use.”

Responding, the state Commissioner of Police, Agbonika, described the initiative as a “new dawn” in Edo’s security efforts, particularly in tackling forest-based crimes, such as kidnapping.

Agbonika said, “This is a great day in our fight against crime. With these motorbikes, we can now go deep into the forests where criminals hide. The days of impunity are over.”

He called on residents across the state to support security agencies by sharing credible information that aids in crime prevention and investigation.