Edo

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In a major coordinated operation, Nigerian Army troops from 4 Brigade, alongside Air Force, Police, Civil Defence, and Edo State Security personnel, have arrested thirteen suspected kidnappers and drug peddlers in Edo North Senatorial District.

The operation, codenamed “Operation IGBO DANU 1,” was carried out on February 4, 2026, across Osara, Auchi, and Okpella communities in Etsako West Local Government Area.

According to a military press release, eight suspects were initially apprehended in the clearance raid. Items recovered from them included a pump-action gun, a locally made pistol, live cartridges, a POS machine, illicit drugs suspected to be cannabis, tramadol, and codeine syrup, as well as phones, a camera, and ₦87,550 in cash.

In a follow-up operation the same day, troops combed the Aviele Forest, leading to the arrest of five more suspects. Two motorcycles, phones, and a power bank were seized.

All arrested individuals and recovered exhibits have been handed over to the Edo State Police Command for further investigation.

The Commander of 4 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, praised the inter-agency collaboration and warned that Edo State will remain hostile to terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminals. He reaffirmed the commitment of security forces to protecting lives and property in the state.

By Anwar Usman

The Governor of Edo State Monday Okpebhlo, on Monday said he would contact his Kano State counterpart, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, to decide the financial compensation for the families of the hunters who were killed by members of a vigilance group in Uromi.

The governor, who spoke through his Press Secretary, Fred Itrua, on Friday, said an agreement would be reached by the governments of the two states, adding that such agreement would be made public.

Receiving the delegation on Thursday, Okpebholo disclosed that the Federal Government, in collaboration with the state government, had also set up a fact-finding committee to look into the circumstances surrounding the recent killings.

Okpebholo said President Bola Tinubu was sad over the happening in Uromi, adding that he (Tinubu) was determined to ensure the state and nation were safe for everybody to live and do business.

He further stated that, “I can’t say what the financial compensation will be. The Kano State Government delegation arrived in Benin on Thursday and submitted a report that only the Edo State governor has seen.

“What I think will happen is that the governor will contact the Kano State governor on what financial compensation would go to the family of the deceased. What is clear is that an agreement will be reached, and it will be made public.”

He said the recommendations of the Kano State Government would be looked into, adding that Governor Yusuf would be contacted on the next line of action.