The Edo State Government has demolished the house of 70-year-old Karimu Audu in Eshioriri-Erah, Owan East Local Government Area, following allegations of his involvement in kidnapping.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Affairs, Akhere Paul, made it known while speaking at the scene saying that the government has zero-tolerance for criminal complicity.
Authorities accused Audu of acting as an informant for kidnappers, providing them with shelter and food. The demolition is part of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s intensified efforts to clamp down on those aiding criminal activities.
“We are here because of conspiracy. He has been working with kidnappers in the forest. Let this serve as a warning—if you see something, say something. If you conspire with criminals, your day will come,” he stated.
The Commander of the Edo State Task Force, SP Michael Anetor, reinforced the administration’s determination to combat kidnapping.
“We are here to enforce the law. It is not my wish to see people’s properties destroyed, but we must restore peace. Kidnapping must stop. With three properties already demolished, let this be a lesson to anyone considering aiding kidnappers,” he said.
However, Audu denied the allegations, claiming his interactions with herders were part of his legitimate duties in the community.
“They said I give information to the ‘Fulani.’ I don’t. I am the chairman of a six-man community committee. My job is to collect annual payments and bring them to the Highness for sharing. I don’t give information to anyone; I simply do my committee work,” he said.
Eshioriri-Erah, a border community between Owan East and Esan West local government areas, has extensive forests connecting Edo North and Edo Central, which criminals have reportedly exploited.
The Edo State Government has vowed to continue its crackdown on kidnappers and their collaborators, warning that more properties linked to criminal activities will be demolished.