By Henry Oqua
The Edo State Governor Mr Godwin Obaseki has expressed his satisfaction with the progress of work being carried out at the 4 Brigade Forward Operating Base the government is building in Edo North senatorial district.
Inspecting the project on Tuesday, December 20, 2022, Mr Obaseki told journalists that the decision was made to establish the army base because of the alarming increase in cases of armed robbery and kidnappings in the area about a year ago.
He explained that the 5 hectare facility cost the state government N1.87 billion and that with the quality of work being carried out represented value for money, “it is money well spent” he said, adding that “If you recall about 12 or so months ago, there was quite an alarming incidence of armed robbery and kidnapping along this axis. We appealed to the Chief of Army Staff for assistance and support; and the Edo state government is now constructing a forward operating base that will accommodate these men to be permanently stationed here.”
Governor Obaseki pointed out that the base will accommodate 90 men and officers of the Nigerian Army who can be rapidly deployed at short notice to bolster security, instead of waiting for men to be deployed from Benin City or other facilities.
“So this is a forward operating base under construction. It was approved by the Chief of Army staff, and is being constructed by the government of Edo State to accommodate up to 90 men and officers at any point in time. So from here, they can deploy forces to support any operation within this axis instead of waiting on the brigade in Benin or the other facility in Auchi.
“Between Benin City and Auchi, there is no military presence; and that is a distance of more than a hundred kilometers.” Obaseki added.
Pleased with the speed of work so far, Mr Obaseki appreciated the support of the COAS, Lt Gen. Farouk Yahaya, and said he would ensure the contractor completes the construction before rains resume next year.
According to him “we are very grateful to the Chief of Army Staff that he graciously approved, and I just came here to inspect the quality of work and the extent of work, and I’m impressed. I am going to ensure that the contractor completes this project before the rains come.”
Before the inspection, Mr Obaseki had held an emergency Security Council Meeting in Auchi, where he promised motorcycles, ammunition, training, stipends, and bonuses for local vigilante groups from across the state.
Accompanied by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu and members of his cabinet, Obaseki reviewed the reports from Heads of the Local Government Authorities (HOLGA) and feedback from community groups and traditional leaders in the district.
