Idahosa hosts Edo hunters, calls for collective action on security

Edo State Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa (left) and Co-Director of Concern Edo Hunters Association, Edo South Branch, Dr Osas Oshodin, during a condolence visit to the Deputy Governor whose mother, Madam Esther Imaguomwanruo Idahosa passed-on recently. Photo: Moses Oboh.

BENIN CITY — Edo State Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, has reiterated the need for collective responsibility in tackling insecurity as he received members of the Concerned Edo Hunters Association, Edo South Chapter, at Government House, Benin City.

At the meeting, which also served as a condolence visit and formal introduction of the group, the deputy governor commended the hunters for their role in supporting security efforts across the state.

Idahosa, who received the delegation on behalf of Governor Monday Okpebholo, acknowledged the contributions of both formal and informal security actors, noting that safeguarding lives and property requires the cooperation of all stakeholders.

“Security is a collective responsibility, and you all have contributed your quota to ensure that Edo State remains safe,” he said, while offering prayers for members of the group whom he described as men and women committed to protecting the territorial integrity of the state.

He assured the delegation that their visit and submissions would be conveyed to the governor for further consideration.

Speaking on behalf of the group, the coordinator of the association, Dr. Solomon Osas Oshodin, said the delegation was drawn from a wider membership base spread across the seven local government areas in Edo South Senatorial District.

He explained that only selected representatives were present for what he described as a “two-pronged visit” involving both condolence and formal introduction.

Oshodin disclosed that the association has been engaging with the state’s security architecture through regular meetings aimed at strengthening intelligence sharing and collaboration.

He also highlighted the role of a benefactor who provided technological support in the form of drones, which are being deployed by the hunters to gather intelligence in difficult and hard-to-reach terrains.

While acknowledging ongoing security challenges in parts of the state, Oshodin stressed that insecurity should be seen as a collective concern, calling on residents and stakeholders to support government efforts in addressing the menace.

He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to working closely with security agencies and the state government to improve safety and stability across Edo State.