The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has reaffirmed that security agencies in the state are working collectively with the government to secure lives and property of citizens, rid the state of crimes and ensure compliance with all directives against the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

gOV. Obaseki gave the assurance after a Security Council meeting with heads of various security agencies in Edo  state, at the Government House, Benin City.

The governor described the clash between men of some of the security agencies, which occurred along Lagos Street, in Oba Market, at the weekend, as unfortunate, noting that the matter has been resolved to preserve the existing collaboration among security agencies in the state.

He says, “One or two individuals had a misunderstanding that degenerated but it has been resolved. The matter is being investigated and we believe that with the speed with which the security agencies are pursuing the matter, they will get to the root of the issue and anyone found culpable will be dealt with accordingly.”

The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Lawan Jimeta, said investigation has commenced into the clash between security operatives and members of taskforce enforcing compulsory use of facemask around Lagos Street area, in Benin City.

CP Jimeta said the weekend clash happened when members of the state taskforce on COVID-19 insisted that a lady should comply with the order on mandatory use of facemasks, adding “The lady became so rude and abusive. An officer tried to intervene and the situation escalated. Thankfully, nobody died.”

“However, an investigation has commenced and all those found to have deliberately used force will be dealt with according to the law.”

Lawal Jimeta assured that security agencies are working and cooperating with Edo State Government in enforcing laws to protect the state from the deadly coronavirus, as well as criminals.

“We are manning all the state borders and ensuring that people comply and get screened. Those that fail to undergo screening are turned back.”

On the killing of a police officer on Friday in Auchi, Edo North Local Government Area, he said investigations have commenced to unravel the immediate and remote causes of the incident.