Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has made a serious allegation concerning the recent unrest in Ekpoma, stating that the protest was not a spontaneous event but a well-coordinated riot sponsored from overseas. The governor's claims point to a deliberate attempt to create chaos and undermine his administration.
Foreign Links and Opposition Conspiracy Alleged
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, Governor Okpebholo asserted that the demonstration in the Esan West Local Government Area was orchestrated by a Nigerian resident in Russia, with support from other individuals abroad. The governor stated there are strong indications that opposition elements are behind the scheme.
According to the government, the masterminds contacted several individuals in Ekpoma, proposing to fund coordinated riots across Ekpoma, Auchi, Irrua, and even the Government House in Benin City. The alleged goal was to misinform the public, destabilize the state, and discredit the Edo State Government.
Security Agencies Identify Masterminds
Governor Okpebholo revealed that security agencies have already identified the key planners behind the protest. He emphasized that the arrests made were not targeted at peaceful dissenters but at individuals engaged in violence and destruction.
"Most of the arrests were based on clear evidence, including a video showing acts of violence and destruction. The suspects arrested are rioters, not peaceful protesters," the governor's statement clarified. He insisted that the government's response was focused on maintaining law and order in the face of a planned attack on public peace.
Political and Public Reactions to the Crisis
The governor's allegations come amid significant backlash following the arrest of 52 students from Ambrose Alli University (AAU) during the protests. The students were demonstrating against the rising spate of kidnappings in the Ekpoma area before the situation escalated into violence, vandalism, and looting.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan strongly condemned the arrests, advocating for dialogue with the youth instead of detention. She urged the state government to address the root cause of the protests—the pervasive insecurity and kidnappings—rather than suppressing the voices of concerned citizens.
Adding to the public outcry, popular TikTok star, Jarvis 'Jadrolita', released a heartfelt video plea directly to Governor Okpebholo, drawing attention to the kidnappings in Ekpoma and the arrest of the students. Her intervention sparked widespread reactions on social media.
The situation in Ekpoma remains tense, with the state government maintaining its stance on a foreign-backed conspiracy while critics demand a more nuanced approach to security and civil engagement.
