Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has suspended the traditional ruler of Uwano Kingdom in Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area, Dr. George Oshiapi Egabor, over a wave of kidnappings and killings in his domain.

The suspension, announced on Monday, is indefinite and comes after the arrest of the monarch’s secretary, Chief Peter Omiogbemhi, following a deadly incident involving the killing of a palace chief, Late John Ikhamate.

A statement signed by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, confirmed the development:

“Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate suspension of Dr. George Oshiapi Egabor… over recent cases of incessant kidnapping and killings in his domain.”

The statement added that, “Already, his secretary, Chief Peter Omiogbemhi, has been arrested by the relevant authorities, following a recent incident that led to the death of a palace chief, Late John Ikhamate.”

The move is part of intensified efforts by the state government to curb insecurity across Edo State.