The Edo State High Court has ordered the remand of several youths arrested during a protest over rising insecurity in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, following disturbances that erupted during the demonstration. The ruling comes amid heightened public concern over kidnapping and violent crime in parts of the state, as authorities insist investigations are ongoing and renewed security measures are being implemented.
On Monday, the Edo State High Court, Criminal Court 2, directed that some of the arrested protesters be remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre pending the conclusion of police investigations and further legal proceedings. The youths were arrested after a protest, initially organized to draw attention to worsening security conditions, escalated into violence and property destruction.
The protest took place in Ekpoma, a major academic and commercial hub in Edo Central Senatorial District. According to the Edo State Police Command, officers were deployed from the outset to monitor the demonstration and ensure that it remained peaceful and within the bounds of the law.
However, police authorities said the situation later deteriorated when the protest was allegedly “hijacked” by individuals who engaged in vandalism, looting, and the destruction of public and private property. In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the command said established protocols for peaceful protest were disregarded as tensions escalated.
As the unrest spread, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, led additional security reinforcements from Benin City to Ekpoma. Police said coordinated deployments and crowd-control measures were used to restore calm and prevent further escalation.
During the chaos, a military personnel member reportedly discharged a firearm, resulting in one protester being injured. The injured man was identified as 32-year-old Osagie Abraham. Police confirmed that CP Agbonika personally visited the victim at a medical facility in Ekpoma, where he is currently receiving treatment.
The police said the military personnel involved in the shooting has been identified and that the appropriate military authorities have been formally notified for administrative and disciplinary action.
While reiterating citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protest, CP Agbonika stressed that demonstrations must not endanger lives or property. He warned that security agencies would act decisively where protests are exploited for criminal purposes.
The Ekpoma protest was triggered by growing frustration among residents over alleged cases of kidnapping, killings, and violent crime in the area. Videos circulating on social media showed angry youths chanting and blocking roads while demanding urgent government action to address insecurity.
Some community members and local leaders have alleged that armed herders operating from forested areas around Ekpoma are responsible for many of the attacks. However, these claims have not been independently verified by TMN, and security agencies have not publicly confirmed the identities or affiliations of those responsible for specific incidents.
Police authorities acknowledged the fear and anxiety within the community, saying intelligence-led operations and patrols have been intensified across Ekpoma and other parts of Edo State to curb criminal activities.
The Edo State Government has condemned the violence that followed the protest while assuring residents that decisive steps are being taken to address insecurity. Governor Monday Okpebholo, through his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, stated that the administration would not tolerate criminal elements undermining public safety.
“This administration will not allow criminals or their sponsors to take Edo State hostage,” the statement said.
The governor’s media adviser, Bugie Okhuemoi, added that technology-driven security measures had already been deployed across the state and that their impact would soon become evident. The government urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible intelligence rather than resorting to actions that could worsen the situation.
With the court-ordered remand of the arrested protesters, legal proceedings and police investigations are expected to continue in the coming days. Authorities say those found culpable of violence or destruction of property will face prosecution, while lawful grievances will be addressed through appropriate channels.
Security agencies and state officials have advised residents to engage in peaceful and lawful means when expressing concerns, avoid spreading unverified information, and report security threats through official channels.
As tensions remain high in parts of Edo State, the Ekpoma incident highlights the delicate balance between the right to protest and the need to maintain public order. Authorities say preventing further escalation will depend on restraint, adherence to the rule of law, and sustained collaboration between communities and security agencies during this period of heightened insecurity.