The Edo State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the abduction and killing of Dr. Abu Momoh Tahir, a medical doctor undergoing his housemanship at the Edo State Teaching Hospital in Auchi. The tragic incident has drawn widespread concern and renewed conversations around security in the state.
In a statement issued on behalf of Governor Monday Okpebholo by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebojele Akhere Patrick, the government described the killing as heartbreaking, distressing, and wholly unacceptable. While sympathizing with the family, friends, and colleagues of the late doctor, the administration emphasized that the incident, though painful, would not weaken its determination to confront kidnapping and other criminal activities head-on.
The state government also suggested that the crime was deliberately carried out to undermine and discredit the governor’s ongoing efforts to strengthen security across Edo State. It maintained that such actions would not distract the administration from its responsibility to protect lives and property.
Governor Okpebholo’s administration assured residents that those behind the crime would be identified, apprehended, and prosecuted in accordance with the law. The government stressed that kidnapping remains a major concern that has continued to receive serious and sustained attention. According to the statement, significant resources and strategic interventions have already been deployed to curb the menace, noting that without these measures, the situation could have been far worse.
The statement further highlighted that the government has remained proactive and consistent in addressing security challenges, pointing to the largely peaceful and crime-free yuletide season as evidence of its commitment to public safety.
It recalled that ahead of the festive period, security operatives under Operation Rescue conducted extensive bush-clearing and surveillance operations across several areas, including Auchi, Agenebode, Okpella, Fugar, and parts of Owan. These coordinated operations reportedly led to the arrest and ongoing prosecution of several suspects, as well as the dismantling of multiple criminal hideouts. The government said these actions significantly reduced kidnapping incidents to their lowest level in recent times.
Despite these gains, the administration acknowledged its disappointment that criminals were still able to claim the life of Dr. Tahir. It reiterated its resolve to intensify security operations and ensure that Edo State becomes increasingly hostile to criminal elements.
The government also appealed to residents to support security agencies by remaining vigilant and sharing timely intelligence. It emphasized that security is a shared responsibility and cannot be left solely in the hands of government and law enforcement agencies. Citizens were urged to promptly report any suspicious movements or activities within their communities.
The Edo State Government concluded by reaffirming its commitment to continuous improvement in security strategies, assuring the public that it would not relent until the state is safe and secure for all who live and work within it.
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