The Edo kidnapping crackdown has taken a new turn after the Edo State Government demolished a building allegedly used by a suspected kidnap kingpin, while the Oba of Benin led traditional priests in invoking spiritual curses against kidnappers and other violent criminals across the state.
The coordinated actions, carried out within hours of each other, underline the growing determination of both the government and traditional institutions to confront the worsening security situation. Moreover, officials say the latest measures are intended to send a strong warning to criminal groups operating within Edo State.
The demolition exercise took place in Obagie-N’Evbuosa Community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, where security operatives identified a building allegedly linked to a suspected leader of a kidnapping syndicate.
Meanwhile, at the Oba’s Palace in Benin City, traditional priests, priestesses and native doctors performed ancient rites aimed at spiritually condemning those involved in kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes.
The demolition was carried out by the Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo alongside security agencies and the Edo State Security Squad under the ongoing Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists.
According to the spokesperson for the security squad, Noah Idemudia, investigations revealed that the building had allegedly served as a holding point for kidnapped victims before they were moved to other locations.
He said, “We are here to demolish this building identified as a den where kidnappers keep their victims. It served as a hideout before they were moved elsewhere.”
Furthermore, Idemudia identified the property as belonging to Solomon Johnson, a suspected kidnapping kingpin who is currently in police custody.
He alleged that the suspect led a gang responsible for terrorising residents of Obagie-N’Evbuosa and neighbouring communities.
According to him, the gang recently demanded an N11 million ransom from the family of one of its victims.
Security operatives also alleged that the group planned to kidnap the victim’s wife before the suspect was arrested.
Consequently, the government ordered the demolition of the building as a warning to individuals involved in kidnapping and other criminal activities.
Meanwhile, the state’s efforts received further backing from the Benin traditional institution.
Following an earlier directive by the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, traditional worshippers gathered at the palace to carry out a special spiritual exercise against violent crimes.
The event began with a procession from the palace grounds before participants assembled at the palace entrance.
Traditional priests, priestesses, physicians known as Ewaise and custodians of various shrines appeared in full ceremonial regalia.
Furthermore, libations were poured while traditional rites were performed to invoke ancestral spirits against those threatening the peace of Edo State.
The spiritual exercise followed the monarch’s directive issued on June 23, 2026, instructing traditional worshippers to revive ancient methods of supporting efforts to restore peace and security.
According to palace officials, the exercise was designed to complement the work of security agencies rather than replace conventional policing.
In addition, prayers were offered for the safety of residents, while spiritual declarations were made against kidnappers, armed robbers and other violent offenders.
The latest developments come as concern continues to grow over insecurity in different parts of Edo State.
Furthermore, community leaders have repeatedly called for stronger action to protect lives and property.
Beyond Edo State, concerns over violent crime are also increasing in neighbouring Delta State.
Meanwhile, the Oghara Study Group, a civic advocacy organisation representing people of Oghara Kingdom, has urged both the Federal Government and security agencies to urgently tackle the growing cases of kidnappings, killings and bandit attacks.
Speaking during a press briefing, the group’s Convener, Rev. David Ugolor, alongside Prof. Ogheneruonah Eghweree, warned that armed criminal groups have continued to disrupt daily life and economic activities across the kingdom.
The organisation appealed for immediate intervention to prevent further loss of lives and restore public confidence.
Moreover, government officials insist that anyone involved in kidnapping or related crimes will face the full weight of the law.
