ETSAKO EAST STANDS UNITED IN GRIEF AND RESOLVE: AS ACTING CHAIRMAN RT. HON. SUNNY EKPETIKA EKPESON PLEDGES UNWAVERING SUPPORT FOR SLAIN FAMILIES AND RENEWED SECURITY COMMITMENT AFTER VISIT TO ITSUKWI COMMUNITY AND 3IBIE PALACE IN WARD 9
Etsako East, Edo State – Etsako East council Boss yesterday, 11th May, 2026 demonstrated solidarity and compassionate leadership as the Acting Executive Chairman and ALGON Edo State Chairman, Rt. Hon. Sunny Ekpetika Ekpeson, paid a condolence visit to the palace of His Royal Highness Atoma I of Imiegba, the Ogiaga IV of 3 Ibie.
The visit was to commiserate with His Royal Highness Alhaji Mallam Ali Suleiman and the people of Ward 9 over the recent loss of a brave member of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC).
Rt. Hon. Ekpeson described the fallen officer, Mr. Abdul, (Burnfire) as a hero whose courage and sacrifice in the line of duty saved lives and upheld peace in the community.
During his engagement with the royal fathers, the Chairman reaffirmed the council’s commitment to standing with families affected by the incident and to strengthening collaboration with traditional institutions and security agencies to protect lives and property.
In a show of direct support, Rt. Hon. Ekpeson visited the family of the late security officer in Itsukwi in Ward 9, 3Ibie. He consoled the wife and parents of Mr. Abdul, honoring his memory as one who gave his life in service to others.
The Chairman assured the family of immediate and sustained assistance from the Local Government Council, including support for Mrs. Abdul, who is expecting a child, and for their young son.
Extending his outreach, the Chairman also visited Mr. Micheal Arekeyamhe family in same Itsukwi, community in Ward 9, to commiserate over the tragic loss of their 80-year-old patriarch who was also kidnapped by the evil monsters and was later shut as the old man could no longer make it to their pace.
The chairman conveyed the council’s deep sympathy and reiterated that every life lost is a reminder of the urgent need for collective action against criminal elements.
The royal fathers expressed gratitude for the Chairman’s visit and consistent follow-up on security matters, noting that his presence brought comfort and reassurance to the affected communities. The delegation was led by Hon. Usman Igbasekhe, Councilor representing Ward 9, in Etsako East Legislative Arm.
The chairman was accompanied by his Vice, Hon. Charles Aloaye Dagana. The Divisional Police Officer of Ibie Division was also present at the palace engagements.
Concluding the visit, Rt. Hon. Ekpeson declared the council’s firm stance against kidnapping and all forms of criminality. He stated that anyone found aiding or collaborating with such acts will face the full weight of the law, and that properties used to harbor criminals will be dealt with in accordance with the directives of the Executive Governor of Edo State, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo. He affirmed that the structure linked to the recent confrontation would be removed without delay.
The council remains dedicated to restoring peace, safeguarding communities, and ensuring that the sacrifices of heroes like Mr. Abdul (Burnfire) are honored through decisive action and unwavering support for the people of Etsako East.
Issued by:
Comr. Amb. Abass Egbezemogie Yunusah
Chief Press Secretary,
Etsako East Local Government Council, Agenebode
Tuesday, 12th May 2026
