Okpebholo praises IGP and Disu for removing former Gov. Godwin Obaseki from office.

The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, praised Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu for his role in removing former governor Godwin Obaseki from a location during the night of the 2024 governorship election.

According to DAILY POST, the governor made the statement on Friday, May 15, 2026, during a visit by the IGP to Government House in Benin City.

DAILY POST also reports that the “unnamed place” refers to the Edo State headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“I remember the night of my election as governor. You were one of those who went there to get Governor Obaseki out of that place. I was so impressed with the way you demonstrated professionalism that night,” Okpebholo said. “If you were not a professional police officer, there might have been harassment or something else.”

Okpebholo, who congratulated the new IGP on his appointment, described him as a professional officer who earned his elevation through dedication and competence.

The governor also pledged continued cooperation with the Nigeria Police Force and called for increased support and collaboration from police authorities to maintain peace and security in the state.

“We need more collaboration. We need more support from you. When I look at the calibre of men that you have deployed to Edo State, I see people who are interested in working for their people. They want to keep the state very safe. Day and night, these people do not sleep in their houses. I want to thank you, and God bless you,” he added.

Earlier, the IGP said the visit was aimed at meeting with officers and men of the Edo State Command, while also appreciating the governor for his support to the police in the state.

The IGP commended Governor Okpebholo for fulfilling promises made to support security operations in the state. He opined that tackling insecurity requires collective efforts, adding that modern policing thrives on community participation and public trust.

“The commissioner of police has been briefing me almost daily about all the assistance you have been rendering to officers of Edo State Command. We have come to say thank you. All the promises you made, they have told me you fulfilled everything. Like Oliver Twist, I still solicit more. Security is everybody’s business. Modern policing says the police are the community, and the community are the police. We are trying as much as possible to enforce community policing,” he stated.

Disu said all state commissioners of police across the country have been directed to make their phone numbers publicly available to strengthen communication and build trust with residents.

He added that the police are trying as much as possible to embrace intelligent policing and policing by consent.