Senator Joseph Ikpea, representing Edo Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has urged Nigerians, particularly his constituents in Edo Central, to remain vigilant and promptly report any unusual activities to security agencies and relevant authorities.
Call for Vigilance
In a statement made available to journalists in Benin City, Ikpea emphasized that security is no longer solely the government's responsibility. He stated: "The issue of security, given the development in our dear nation today, has gone beyond being the exclusive preserve of the government. All citizens must be involved and take the matter as part of their civic responsibilities to the Nigerian State."
The senator appealed to the people of Edo Central not to disregard the alert issued by the Department of State Services (DSS), noting that the advisory did not specifically mention their district. He warned that criminals involved in kidnapping do not discriminate based on tribe or region.
Proactive Measures
Ikpea urged constituents to be conscious of their surroundings, observe unfamiliar faces, and take bold steps to report suspicious activities. He said: "We should not wait till it happens before we act."
Reacting to the closure of some schools in Edo State, Ikpea commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for taking proactive steps following a red alert from the DSS about planned bandit attacks on schools. He noted that the governor demonstrated uncommon leadership by prioritizing the well-being of the people.
According to Ikpea, given the nation's security situation, Governor Okpebholo's decision to treat the DSS red alert seriously was ideal and showed a full grasp of governance principles.
