Senator Joseph Ikpea, representing Edo Central Senatorial District, has emphasized that Nigeria must adopt localized security initiatives at the local government level to effectively combat the rising tide of banditry, kidnapping, and other crimes. Speaking with journalists in Benin City, the senator expressed deep concern over the country's persistent insecurity and its seemingly intractable nature.
Security Outposts as a Model
Ikpea highlighted three security outposts he constructed during his tenure as chairman of Esan South-West Local Government Area. These facilities, he noted, are now being utilized by security agencies to curb insecurity in the senatorial district. Built at a time when security was relatively stable, the outposts have become critical assets for the military and police. He stated: "If you are coming from Ubiaja, you will see one security post built before the river leading to Ewato. I built it because the road was lonely. Today, the Army uses it."
Budgetary Provisions and Maintenance
The senator disclosed that the 2026 budget includes allocations for the maintenance of these security outposts and other community-focused projects. He pledged to ensure their full execution. Ikpea, who is also the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial candidate for the 2027 National Assembly election, commended Governor Monday Okpebholo's developmental efforts, noting that he is ensuring the implementation of projects he advocated for as a senator before becoming governor.
Local Solutions for Local Problems
Ikpea stressed that security, like politics, is local. He urged all local government chairmen to devise context-specific strategies to counter criminal activities in their areas. "All local government areas chairmen must look inwards and devise means of effectively checkmating criminals. That is what we did by constructing those security outposts," he said.
Other Achievements
Beyond security, Ikpea recalled his accomplishments as council chairman, including drilling a borehole for the council secretariat, acquiring an alternative electricity source, and building a magistrate court in Ubiaja from scratch. He also donated hospital equipment to all health centers in the local government area. As a member of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), he attracted renovations to public primary schools in the senatorial district and facilitated the employment of 550 teachers into the state civil service. Since his swearing-in as senator in October 2025, he has attracted rehabilitation work for a primary school in Uromi through a supplementary budget.
