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The Edo State Security Squad (ESSS) has directed all business owners in the state to install functional Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras in their premises on or before July 30, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen security and combat crime.
The squad warned that businesses that fail to comply with the directive risk enforcement action, stressing that the initiative is aimed at supporting security agencies in preventing and investigating criminal activities.
Addressing journalists in Benin City on Monday, the spokesperson for the ESSS, Mr. Noah Idemudia, said surveillance cameras have become an essential tool for crime detection, investigation and evidence gathering.
He urged business operators to embrace the initiative in the interest of public safety, noting that CCTV footage would enable security personnel to reconstruct incidents and identify suspects more effectively.
\"We encourage all business owners to install functional CCTV cameras within their business premises. This will enhance security and help us professionally investigate security breaches. We appeal for your cooperation to make Edo a safer state,\" Idemudia said.
The security squad also issued a stern warning against planned \"7/7\" celebrations allegedly associated with cult groups, declaring that such activities would not be tolerated anywhere in the state.
Idemudia said security operatives were already on alert and warned that anyone found participating in unlawful cult-related celebrations would be arrested and prosecuted.
He advised individuals planning to take part in the activities to abandon the idea, insisting that security agencies would track and apprehend offenders regardless of where the events were held.
The spokesperson further disclosed that the ESSS would continue collaborating with the palace of the Oba of Benin to identify, invite and profile community leaders across the state as part of broader efforts to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve community-based security.
