Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has issued a firm warning about the growing risk of foreign mercenaries being used to destabilize Nigeria as the country approaches the 2027 general elections. He made the statement while receiving Comrade Godiya Adams Bogoro, President of the Northern Youth Association of Nigeria, along with ten other youth leaders from the northern region. Governor Okpebholo emphasized the importance of unity among Nigerians and appealed for peaceful coexistence across ethnic and religious lines.
The governor expressed concern about early signs of unrest surfacing in different parts of the country, attributing them to political actors seeking to use young people as tools for their selfish agendas. He called on Nigerian youths to recognize their role as the future of the country and to resist any form of manipulation that could jeopardize national peace.
Recalling events from the 2015 elections, Okpebholo warned that there were reports of mercenaries being brought into the country by individuals with harmful intentions. He stressed that such actions must not be allowed to happen again. He urged young Nigerians to take a stand and reject those who promote chaos and violence. According to him, the nation belongs to all Nigerians, especially its youth, who should take responsibility for protecting it.
Governor Okpebholo thanked the delegation for acknowledging his government’s efforts in managing the crisis that occurred recently in Uromi. He mentioned that he spent part of his early life in northern Nigeria and described the Uromi incident as a serious matter that should inspire broader efforts toward national peace. He confirmed that he had sent messages to northern communities condemning the violence and encouraged unity in tackling insecurity.
He further expressed sorrow over the loss of innocent lives and insisted that those who bring violence into the country are not true Nigerians. He described them as outsiders who instigate conflict, leaving ordinary citizens to suffer the consequences.
Comrade Bogoro, speaking on behalf of the visiting youth leaders, praised the governor for his prompt and decisive handling of the Uromi incident. He highlighted the importance of addressing the root causes of insecurity and commended Okpebholo for prioritising peace and encouraging community participation in governance.
In a separate engagement, Governor Okpebholo met with members of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Edo State Chapter. He encouraged them to stay away from drugs and violence, reminding them that the choices they make today will shape their future.
