Adeyanju Commends Edo Governor On Kidnapping Fight, Faults Governance

Human rights lawyer and public affairs commentator, Deji Adeyanju, has commended the Edo State Governor for what he described as firm steps taken by the state government to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.

Adeyanju, however, maintained his criticism of the governor’s overall governance style, insisting that while the administration’s efforts against kidnapping deserve commendation, he remains opposed to what he described as its failed approach to governance.

In a statement, Adeyanju said he had consistently criticised the Edo State Governor, but noted that the administration’s actions against suspected kidnappers and criminal hideouts represented steps that should be acknowledged.

He specifically commended the identification and prosecution of suspected kidnappers, as well as the demolition of properties and hideouts allegedly linked to criminal activities.

According to him, such measures send a strong message that kidnapping and other forms of violent crime will not be tolerated in Edo State.

Adeyanju urged the governor to intensify the ongoing efforts and take the fight against criminal elements further by strengthening preventive security measures across the state.

He particularly called for greater utilisation of community policing, stressing the need to strengthen security structures at the ward and local government levels.

The lawyer said empowering communities to provide timely intelligence could significantly support security agencies in identifying threats and preventing kidnappings before they occur.

Adeyanju’s position combines a commendation of the Edo State Government’s security measures with a broader criticism of its governance, making clear that acknowledgement of specific actions does not amount to an endorsement of the administration’s overall performance.

He urged the state government to sustain the fight against kidnapping while placing greater emphasis on intelligence gathering, community participation and preventive security measures.