Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, moved swiftly to condemn the killing of UNIBEN student, Alexander Omogiate, describing it as a direct assault on public safety and human dignity.
His response came amid growing outrage from residents, students, and concerned citizens demanding accountability and stronger action against violent criminal groups operating in the state.
Okpebholo Promises Justice for Slain UNIBEN Student
According to preliminary police reports, the incident occurred near the main gate of the University of Benin when gunmen in another vehicle intercepted the victims and opened fire at close range before fleeing the scene.
The attack reportedly left multiple people injured, including a passerby, while Omogiate later died from gunshot wounds at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as frightened residents and students ran for safety moments after gunshots rang out near the busy university axis. Videos and accounts circulating online further heightened concerns over security around campuses and urban communities in Benin City.
Reacting to the incident, the governor assured the public that the perpetrators would not escape justice. The response was framed not only as a reaction to a tragic killing but also as part of a wider determination to dismantle criminal and cult-related networks across Edo State.
In a statement released through his Chief Press Secretary, the governor extended condolences to the family of the deceased and pledged full support for ongoing investigations. He stressed that the government would not allow violent groups to terrorize innocent residents or undermine public peace.
Growing Concerns Over Cult Violence in Edo Communities
The killing has once again drawn attention to the issue of cultism and gang violence in Edo State, particularly within areas surrounding tertiary institutions.
While authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, many residents believe the incident reflects a deeper security challenge that has persisted for years.
The University of Benin also distanced itself from the incident, stating that preliminary findings suggested the violence occurred outside the campus environment and was linked to suspected cult activity rather than university operations.
Still, the tragedy has intensified conversations around student safety, law enforcement visibility, and the need for more preventive security strategies in communities surrounding higher institutions.
Police Intensify Investigation as Okpebholo Promises Justice for the Student
The Edo State Police Command confirmed that a full-scale investigation has commenced, with security agencies working to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack. Authorities have appealed to members of the public to provide useful information that could assist ongoing investigations.
Governor Okpebholo also reiterated that his administration would continue collaborating with the police, the Department of State Services, and other security agencies to combat violent crime and cult-related activities across the state.
According to the governor, recent security operations, arrests, and community engagement initiatives are already yielding results, although the latest incident shows that the fight against criminal violence is far from over.
A Painful Reminder of the Work Ahead
For many students and residents in Benin City, the killing of Alexander Omogiate has become another painful symbol of lives disrupted by violence. The tragedy has sparked renewed calls for stronger security around schools and more aggressive action against armed groups operating within the state.
As investigations continue, the pledge by Okpebholo now stands as a defining public commitment from the Edo State Government.
Attention remains fixed on whether authorities can successfully bring those responsible to justice and reassure residents that violent crime will not be allowed to thrive unchecked in Edo State.
