No evidence ISWAP is operating in Edo, says commissioner

The Edo government says there is no evidence that the Islamic State in West African Province (ISWAP) is operating in the state. 

Chris Nehikhare, Edo commissioner for communication, spoke on Saturday in reaction to the attack on an anti-crime patrol team.

In a statement written in Arabic on Friday, ISWAP claimed that it had targeted police personnel in the state.

But Nehikhare said the attack was carried out by bandits, not ISWAP members.

The commissioner said a thorough check on the state’s security apparatus showed no presence of ISWAP or its fighters.

“After a thorough investigation by state security outfits involving the police, Nigerian Army, Edo State Vigilante Network and Nigeria Civil Defence Corps, there is no evidence of ISWAP or its operatives in the state,” Nehikhare said.

“Government assures that it will continue to provide support to the security agencies in the state to tackle crime and criminality.

“And also enhance patrols of the state’s borders to make the state most uncomfortable for the decimated bandits.

“The Edo government restates its commitment to the safety of lives and property in the state and to the sustenance of a safe environment for citizens to go about their lawful businesses.”