The Edo State High Court, Criminal Court 2, has ordered the remand of several youths involved in a protest in Ekpoma, sending them to the Ubiaja Correctional Centre for 14 days. Relatives of the arrested protesters were seen wailing as they were moved into a waiting vehicle.
The protest, staged last weekend, was organized by youths demanding action against rising kidnappings and insecurity in Esan West Local Government Area. A viral video showed residents demonstrating while some individuals, believed to be cattle breeders, fled a local market at the sight of the protesters.
The police said the protest, initially peaceful, was later “hijacked,” resulting in vandalism, looting, and a military personnel firing at a protester. CP Monday Agbonika visited 32-year-old Osagie Abraham, who was shot and is receiving medical care. The military personnel involved have been identified, and disciplinary action is being taken.
Authorities assured the public that thorough investigations are ongoing to ensure all culprits are brought to justice. The police emphasized that lawful protests are allowed but must be conducted peacefully and without endangering others or damaging property.
Governor Monday Okpebholo and the state government reaffirmed their commitment to tackling insecurity. They stated that intensified security operations are ongoing to curb kidnappings, cultism, and other crimes, and urged citizens to support security agencies by providing information and refusing to shield criminals.
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