FIC Report (Edo State) – The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has assured the newly appointed Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, of the state government’s continued support and closer collaboration in strengthening security across Edo State.
Governor Okpebholo gave the assurance on Friday 15th May, 2026 when the new police chief paid a courtesy visit to Government House in Benin City alongside a high-powered delegation of senior police officers. The delegation included the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 5, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, the AIG of the Nigeria Police Mobile Force, and other top officers.
Welcoming the IGP, Governor Okpebholo congratulated him on his appointment as the 23rd indigenous Inspector General of Police, describing him as a seasoned professional whose rise through the ranks was earned through hard work, discipline, and competence.
The governor noted that the new police chief had consistently demonstrated professionalism in the discharge of his duties, adding that his appointment was well deserved.
Governor Okpebholo also recalled the role played by the IGP during the events surrounding the 2024 Edo governorship election, commending his conduct and professionalism at the time.
According to the governor, the manner in which the police chief handled the situation reflected maturity and commitment to due process, stressing that such professionalism helped prevent unnecessary tension.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies, the governor called for stronger cooperation between the Edo State Government and the Nigeria Police Force to sustain peace and security in the state.
He commended officers serving in Edo State for their dedication and sacrifices, noting that many of them work tirelessly day and night to keep residents safe.
Earlier, the Inspector General of Police said his visit to Edo State was part of efforts to interact with officers and men of the Edo State Command, while also appreciating the governor for his support to security agencies operating in the state.
The police chief praised Governor Okpebholo for fulfilling commitments made towards improving police operations in Edo State, noting that the state government had continued to provide valuable assistance to the command.
He, however, appealed for more support, stressing that security challenges require sustained collaboration between government, security agencies, and the public.
The IGP emphasized that security is a collective responsibility, adding that modern policing thrives on community participation and trust between the police and the people.
According to him, the Nigeria Police Force is intensifying efforts to strengthen community policing and improve communication between police officers and members of the public.
He disclosed that commissioners of police across the country had been directed to make their phone numbers publicly available to encourage easier communication and build public confidence in the police.
The meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dennis Idahosa, Chief of Staff, Hon. Yakubu Musa, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, and retired General Cecil Esekhaigbe.
Signed:
Omoluogbe Ruth
FIC Benin city
15th May, 2026
