The House of Representatives has resolved to establish a military base in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State to bolster security amid escalating criminal activities in the region. The resolution, adopted following a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Hon. Henry Okojie (APC, Esan North East/Esan South East Federal Constituency), calls on the Defence Headquarters to set up the base ahead of the next wave of security challenges.
In his presentation of the motion, Okojie stressed that a military base in Uromi would enhance the security presence and response capabilities in the area—a critical need as incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, murder, rape, and cult-related killings continue to rise. He cited Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, emphasizing that ensuring security is the primary duty of government.
The House also commended Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo for his proactive measures in establishing a Joint Security Taskforce, codenamed Operation Rescue. Backed by the state government, the task force has been equipped with modern security vehicles, gadgets, and a restructured Edo State Security Corps to reinforce community-based security efforts. According to Okojie, the task force has already begun yielding positive results.
The resolution noted disturbing patterns of criminal activity, particularly along key rail routes in the region, and named a growing list of victims—including Mr. Sylvester, Mr. Kingsley Okoboh, Mr. Odion Onobhoebhin, Mr. Akhere, Mrs. Margaret Akpa, Mr. Monday Ikah, Mr. Eboh, and Mr. Ehiabhili, Chairman of the Tipper Drivers’ Association—as well as an undergraduate student and a 16-year-old rape survivor, among others.
In addition to establishing the military base, the House urged the Federal Government, DSS, Nigerian Army, and Police to intensify investigations and strengthen collaboration across security agencies. A minute of silence was observed in honor of the victims, and the Committees on Defence, Army, National Security and Intelligence, Police, and Legislative Compliance were mandated to monitor the implementation of the resolution and report back within four weeks.
The decision underscores federal lawmakers’ commitment to addressing the worsening insecurity in Edo State and ensuring the safety of its residents.
