Damage control: Edo Gov delivers aid to communities after bloodshed

Edo State Government has delivered relief materials to seven farming communities attacked by suspected Ijaw militants.

Governor Monday Okpebholo sent the items through the State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, on Monday April 21, 2025.

SEMA Executive Secretary, Jerry Idahosa, presented the items on behalf of the governor.

The aid includes 3,000 bags of 10kg rice and ₦20 million in financial support.

The attacked communities include Marindoti, Gbelemontin Domiju, Kola Village, Taiye Camp, Eto Camp, Dipe, Bala Dele, and Thousand.

The February 21 attacks left 22 people dead and destroyed homes worth millions of naira.

The affected areas are mostly populated by farmers from Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, and Benin ethnic groups.

Idahosa said the state would help rebuild homes and restore essential infrastructure.

He also announced plans to establish a security post at Maidoti/Gbelebu community.

The state will work with security agencies to enforce peace and prevent future violence.

“This is real governance—action driven by compassion,” Idahosa said during the presentation.

He said the aid package was more than just food; it was a symbol of care and resilience.

Families received financial support to start rebuilding immediately after the attacks.

Idahosa noted that this intervention was not a mere gesture but a firm commitment and support from the government.

He praised the collaboration between Edo State and the Federal Government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“The Federal Government has prioritised grassroots recovery. We are proud to match that vision locally,” he said.

Residents of the affected communities expressed gratitude for the swift response from the government.

Many survivors said the relief arrived at a critical time as farming season approaches.

Community leaders also urged the state to provide permanent security presence in the region.

They also called for justice and the arrest of the attackers.

The state assured them that investigations were ongoing to bring the perpetrators to book.

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