THE TRUTH BEHIND THE INSECURITY DEBATE: WHY EDO PEOPLE MUST LOOK BEYOND GOVERNOR MONDAY’S STATEMENT AND FACE THE REAL ENEMIES OF PEACE
The conversation around insecurity in Edo State — and Nigeria at large — has taken an emotional turn. Many have rushed to criticize Governor Monday Okpebholo for stating during an interview that a significant portion of the unrest is being sponsored by the opposition.
But before we join the blame chorus, let us pause and examine the truth with clear eyes.
1️⃣ Opposition Sponsoring Insecurity Is Not New — It Is a Known Political Tool in Nigeria
History has shown that whenever some desperate political actors want to score cheap points, they look for the fastest and most destructive method:
create fear, ignite unrest, manipulate public sentiment, and weaken the standing government.
This has been their pattern for years.
So why is it suddenly unbelievable that the same people are at it again?
Even the former governor himself openly said months ago that “Nigeria will burn” — and today, the signs are everywhere.
When a leader makes such a proclamation, should we act surprised that chaos follows?
2️⃣ Governor Monday Was Not Wrong — He Was Honest
Governor Monday Okpebholo spoke from intelligence reports, pattern recognition, and the realities he sees behind the scenes.
But because the truth is bitter, many are twisting it as a “blunder.”
The truth is simple:
He pointed at the criminals behind the mask, and they got uncomfortable.
3️⃣ The Real Issue Is Not His Statement — It Is the SYSTEM Fighting His Efforts
Let us speak the truth boldly:
The governor has invested in patrol vans, equipment, gadgets, and support systems to strengthen security.
Yet what do we see?
Police officers and some local vigilante teams on the streets collecting ₦200 from motorists from morning till night —
while actual criminals operate freely elsewhere.
So we must ask:
Were the security vans bought just to increase traffic delays?
Were the gadgets provided to enable extortion rather than protection?
Where is the accountability of those entrusted to keep us safe?
4️⃣ Governor Monday Is Trying — But He Must Step Up With Bigger, Tougher Actions
He has shown commitment.
He has shown concern.
But now he must:
- Enforce strict accountability within the security system
- Collaborate with federal agencies for stronger intelligence gathering
- Engage community leaders and citizens in a united safety strategy
- Purge compromised individuals within the state’s security architecture
Edo State needs a governor who is bold enough to speak the truth — and Governor Monday has done exactly that.
Now, he must build on that honesty with decisive action.
5️⃣ Moving Forward: Edo People Must Stand With Truth, Not Propaganda
This is not the time to attack the governor for exposing the root of insecurity.
This is the time to:
- Look beyond politics
- Expose those sponsoring chaos
- Support real solutions
- Strengthen community vigilance
- Demand accountability from security agencies
Governor Monday is navigating a system that many before him feared to confront.
The least we can do is support progress — not empower those committed to destabilizing our state.
Edo State is not fighting Governor Monday.
Edo State is fighting:
- A rotten system,
- Saboteurs hiding behind politics,
- And individuals who profit from chaos.
Governor Monday has made a bold statement — not a wrong one.
Now, with the support of well-meaning citizens,
he can transform that truth into lasting security reforms.
Edo must rise above propaganda.
Edo must choose peace over politics.
Edo must stand with leadership that speaks the truth — even when the truth is uncomfortable.
Michael Abu (Angel Mike), is a social activist, theologian, policy political/political analyst, and blogger from Edo State.
