Edo Protesters Remanded, Police Say Rally Was Hijacked

The protest, which took place last weekend in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, was sparked by rising cases of kidnapping and insecurity in the area. A video circulating online showed residents demonstrating against the violence, with some cattle breeders fleeing a local market as the protest unfolded.

Police Say Protest Was Hijacked

The Edo State Police said the protest “was hijacked,” leading to looting, vandalism, and other incidents. ASP Eno Ikoedem, the Police Public Relations Officer, said the Area Commander in Ekpoma had initially mobilised officers to ensure the demonstration remained peaceful.

“Regrettably, the protest was hijacked, and all rules of peaceful protest were ignored,” the statement said.

Additional police reinforcements, led by Commissioner of Police CP Monday Agbonika, were deployed to restore order. “Through coordinated deployments and professional crowd control, normalcy was swiftly restored,” the police said.

Those involved in violence or vandalism were identified and arrested, with investigations ongoing.

Man Shot During Protest

The police confirmed that 32-year-old Osagie Abraham was shot during the protest and is receiving treatment at a medical centre in Ekpoma. The military personnel involved in the shooting have been identified, and military authorities have been notified for disciplinary action.

CP Agbonika emphasised that while citizens have the right to protest, demonstrations must be peaceful and not threaten public safety or property.

Addressing local security concerns, he assured residents that the Edo State Police Command is intensifying intelligence-led operations, strategic patrols, and targeted interventions to curb kidnapping across the state, including Ekpoma.