From Tony Osauzo, Benin
Following rising insecurity in Edo State, the state governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has directed members of the suspended Edo State Security Network (ESSN) to resume duties.
Recall that shortly before the state gubernatorial election in September, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, announced the suspension of activities of the ESSN in the state.
However, in a statement, the state commissioner for communication and orientation, Chris Nehikhare, said the governor had asked the ESSN members to resume work in the wake of the state’s deteriorating security situation.
“The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has directed members of the Edo State Security Network to resume their regular duties in the wake of the deteriorating security situation in the state.
“The Governor gave the directive after the State Security Council meeting on Monday, during which the council undertook a review of the recent rise in homicides and other security incidents in the state.
“The government noted that the current state of insecurity in the state would not be tolerated, and the Edo State Commissioner of Police has been mandated to ensure the restoration of order and sanity in the state.
“The state government restates its commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property in the state,” the statement said.
In the last two weeks, clashes by members of rival cult groups have claimed several lives in the state, particularly in the state capital, Benin City.
