Exposing the Enemy Within -- By Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele

The recent insecurity challenge in Edo State revealed a difficult reality that many would rather not confront: criminals do not operate in isolation. Behind many acts of kidnapping, robbery, and violent crime, anywhere, are networks of informants, sponsors, and collaborators who provide the support that allows evil to thrive.

This uncomfortable truth is what Governor Monday Okpebholo brought to the attention of Edo people recently.He exposed the fact that the fight against crime is not only about chasing men with weapons but also about exposing those who quietly assist them.

The governor’s warning came after the shocking kidnapping incident at the Vegetable Market Off Airport Road in Benin City, where a mother was abducted in broad daylight in the presence of her husband and children from a stationary vehicle. The incident sparked public anger and concern, but it also demonstrated the determination of the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration to respond, and it did decisively.

Immediately after the incident, Governor Okpebholo directed security agencies to act. The result days after was the arrest by men of the State Police Command of a suspect linked to the crime, the killing of another suspect during the operation, and ongoing efforts to apprehend other members of the gang.

Rather than treating the incident as an isolated criminal act, Governor Okpebholo used the opportunity to address a deeper problem: the presence of individuals within communities who provide assistance to criminal groups.

At a meeting with Christian ministers in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo alleged that some residents were involved in recruiting criminals from outside Edo State, supplying information about potential victims and sharing proceeds from kidnappings. He also warned religious leaders against pleading for the release of arrested suspects without understanding the seriousness of the allegations against them.

Every successful kidnapping operation requires more than weapons. Criminals need knowledge of the environment, information about victims, safe routes, and places to hide. Those who provide such support are not innocent bystanders; they are partners in crime. This is what the governor’s position is about because insecurity can not be defeated when criminals enjoy sympathy, protection, or information from within the communities they attack.

This is why Governor Okpebholo’s message is important. He is calling on Edo people to recognise that the fight against insecurity is not government property but a collective responsibility. Communities - villages, residents, and families must stop protecting criminals; they must stop celebrating suspicious wealth and begin reporting individuals whose activities raise legitimate concerns.

The governor’s decision to reward police officers involved in the arrest of a suspect connected to the Vegetable Market kidnapping also shows the importance of motivating security personnel who risk their lives to protect citizens.

By presenting N10 million to the operatives, Governor Okpebholo sent a clear message that his administration values effective policing and will support security agencies in their efforts to restore peace across Edo State.

The recovery of items linked to the suspect, including a vehicle, firearm, ammunition, and suspected proceeds of crime, further underscores the seriousness of the security threat and the need for sustained action.

Governor Okpebholo’s idea for a special court to handle cases involving kidnappers and cultists also reflects the frustration of residents who have suffered from repeated criminal attacks. While every punishment must follow due legal process, there is a strong argument that violent criminal cases should not be allowed to drag endlessly while victims continue to suffer.

How can a society develop when fear controls the movement of its people? Businesses can not grow when traders worry about being kidnapped. Investors can not confidently commit resources where insecurity threatens lives and property. Life can come to a standstill as a result.

This is why the governor’s security approach is central to his broader development agenda. Roads, schools, hospitals, and economic projects can only deliver their full benefits when citizens are safe enough to use them.

By and large, the central issue remains undeniable: criminal collaboration is a major obstacle in the fight against insecurity. Ignoring it will only empower those who profit from the suffering of others.

Edo people must, therefore, support the governor's deliberate efforts to expose and isolate criminal elements within communities. Religious leaders, traditional institutions, youth groups, and residents all have roles to play in ensuring that criminals no longer find protection among the people they harm.

Governor Okpebholo’s message is not simply about punishment; it is about restoring responsibility and rebuilding a culture where crime is rejected, reported, and confronted. The enemy threatening our peace may sometimes come with weapons, but sometimes, he lives quietly among us, hiding behind normal appearances while supporting criminal activities.

That enemy must be exposed. And defeating him requires the cooperation of every responsible citizen.

Dr. Ebojele has his PhD. in Public Administration and is the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo