BENIN CITY – The Okpuje Patriots, a progressive youth organization from Owan West Local Government Area, has formally commended the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his “decisive and fatherly intervention” in the kidnapping case involving Professor Monday Lewis Igbafen of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, _Standard Daily Press_ gathered.
In a statement released in Benin City by the group’s Acting Convener, Hon. Idonuan Agbonlua, the group described the Governor’s interest in the matter as a testament to his administration’s “pro-people” stance and a clear signal that the era of insecurity in Edo State is being met with political will.
Background of the Case
Professor Igbafen, a prominent academic, was abducted at the gate of his residence in Ekpoma on September 28, 2024. While five principal suspects are currently remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre awaiting trial, the Professor has raised serious concerns regarding the thoroughness of the initial police investigation.
Through his legal counsel, Prof. Bola Adekanle, Igbafen petitioned the Governor to order a reinvestigation. The core of his grievance lies in the fact that while his mobile phone was recovered from the suspects, his Highlander SUV and other high-value personal effects remain missing.
Concerns Over Complicity
Professor Igbafen has been vocal about the systemic challenges hindering the fight against kidnapping in the state.
”I strongly suspect some complicity between the police and these kidnappers,” Igbafen stated. “Not until we check this seeming complicity, the incident of kidnapping will not abate, especially in Ekpoma.”
The Professor questioned why, despite confessions from the suspects, his vehicle has not been traced, leaving many to wonder if the assets are still with the criminals or have been diverted through other means.
A Subtle Appeal for Restitution
While the Okpuje Patriots lauded the Governor’s commitment to justice, the group also drew attention to the significant emotional and logistical toll the incident has taken on the Professor.
As a dedicated educator who has served the state’s premier university for years, the loss of his primary means of transportation—the Highlander SUV—has severely hampered his ability to carry out his academic and community duties.
In light of the Governor’s “Renewed Hope” agenda for Edo State, there is a growing sentiment among stakeholders that beyond the prosecution of the suspects, a gesture of restitution—specifically regarding the replacement or recovery of the Professor’s vehicle—would serve as a profound morale booster for the academic community and a symbol of the Governor’s commitment to “making victims whole” again.
Looking Ahead
The Okpuje Patriots concluded by pledging their total support for Governor Okpebholo’s anti-kidnapping crusade, urging the state government to ensure that the ongoing investigation leads to the full recovery of all stolen properties.
