Edo deploys 497 forest guards to fight crime

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has inducted 497 newly trained forest guards, charging them with the responsibility of securing ungoverned forest areas and supporting efforts to improve safety across the state.

The guards were officially inducted during a passing-out ceremony held at the Police Training School, Ogida Barracks, Benin City on Tuesday, as part of measures to strengthen community security and protect forest reserves from criminal activities.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Musa Yakubu, the governor said his administration remains committed to creating a safer environment for residents and improving the state’s security structure.

Okpebholo urged the new recruits to carry out their duties with discipline, professionalism and integrity, reminding them that their role goes beyond protecting forests.

“The training you have undergone is only the beginning of your responsibility. As you step into active service, remember that you are ambassadors of Edo State,” he said.

He charged the forest guards to work closely with security agencies, protect communities and help reclaim forests that have become hiding places for criminals.

“Your duty is to protect our forests, support law enforcement agencies and contribute to the peace and security of our dear state, ” he added.

The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, who was represented by Commissioner of Police Aniefiok Akpan, congratulated the graduates and announced that they would be deployed across Edo’s 18 local government areas.

He said priority would be given to areas with ungoverned forest spaces where criminal activities could thrive.

The induction forms part of broader efforts by the federal and Edo State governments to improve intelligence gathering, strengthen local security and prevent crime within forest communities.