When Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika assumed duty in Edo State on April 8, 2025, he was stepping into a challenging terrain marked by rising insecurity and a growing sense of fear among residents. In an exclusive interview, CP Agbonika shared insights into how he has been confronting the security challenges head-on, and the progress made so far.
According to CP Agbonika, his primary mandate upon arrival was to address the disturbing surge in violent crimes, particularly the recent killings that had unsettled communities across the state. He acknowledged the critical support of the state governor, describing him as “a leader with a firm and proactive approach to security matters,” which provided a strong foundation for his mission.
“Engaging Uromi alone wasn’t enough,” CP Agbonika explained. “I realized that to truly bring the situation under control, we had to broaden our engagement to include stakeholders from surrounding communities as well.” This expanded collaboration quickly bore fruit, helping to reduce tension and foster a more unified front against insecurity.
On the persistent issue of kidnapping, CP Agbonika admitted that significant challenges remain, particularly due to the difficult and vast forest terrains that criminals exploit for cover. “I personally led operations into the forests,” he said. “We engaged with settlements deep within and began the process of mapping the terrain, identifying patterns and possible hideouts used by kidnappers.”
Under his leadership, the state’s police management team devised a comprehensive strategy targeting these hotspots. “We are working tirelessly to ensure this strategy is fully implemented,” he affirmed. “Moving forward, we will consistently review and assess its effectiveness, making necessary adjustments to stay ahead of criminal activities.”