Minister Condemns Deadly Attack on Benin Zoo

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has
strongly condemned the attack on Ogba Zoo and Nature Park in Benin,
Edo State, on Sunday, during which three policemen were killed and the
Head of the Zoo, Dr. Andy Ehanire, was abducted by the attackers.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Minister described the
attack on one of the country's foremost tourist destinations as a big blow
to ongoing efforts to lift the tourism sector in the country.

''The success or failure of a tourism destination depends largely on a
safe and secure environment. Incidences such as the attack on the Ogba
Zoo and Nature Park therefore negate the concept of tourism as well as
government's determination to develop our tourism industry as a tool
for socio-economic development.

''The killing of the three policemen attached to the zoo to provide
security for fun seekers, the abduction of the zoo boss and the trauma
suffered by the visitors who witnessed the attack are saddening,
condemnable and most unfortunate,'' he said.

Alhaji Mohammed said the government will step up security in all the
tourist sites across the country in particular in order to prevent a
recurrence, while urging the abductors of Dr Ehanire to quickly
release him unharmed.

He also sent his condolences to the families of the policemen who were
killed in the attack, and prayed that God will grant repose to their
souls.