Authorities in Edo State have deployed a significant security presence to Ekpoma following violent unrest, leading to the arrest of fifty-two individuals suspected of criminal acts. The police have firmly dismissed claims circulating on social media that peaceful demonstrators were targeted in the operation.
Joint Security Operation Supervised by CP Agbonika
According to a statement released on Monday, 13 January 2026, by the Edo State Police Command spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, personally oversaw the heavy deployment of personnel to the town in Esan West Local Government Area. The operation was a coordinated effort involving multiple agencies.
The joint security team included personnel from the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Edo State Security Corps, and local hunters. The primary objective, as stated by the police, is to sustain public safety and tackle kidnapping and other criminal activities in the area.
Peaceful Protest Hijacked, 52 Suspects Arrested
Police investigations revealed that what began as a peaceful protest in Ekpoma was subsequently disrupted by individuals who engaged in acts of violence and vandalism. A total of fifty-two (52) persons were arrested on suspicion of participating in these violent acts.
The suspects are accused of a range of offences including:
- Vandalism
- Assault occasioning harm
- Rioting
- Looting
- Cruelty to animals
In a particularly egregious incident, the suspects were alleged to have forcibly entered the palace of the Enogie of Ekpoma, Anthony Ehizogie Abumere. There, they reportedly assaulted the traditional ruler and his wife and caused damage to property.
Police Counter Misinformation, Suspects Arraigned
CSP Hundeyin used the statement to directly counter narratives being spread online. "Contrary to claims circulating on social media, the Edo State Police Command guarantees that no peaceful protester was arrested," he asserted. He clarified that demonstrators who remained peaceful were advised to return to their homes.
The police confirmed that all 52 suspects have been arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction. The command reiterated its stance on the right to protest, balanced with a zero-tolerance policy for violence.
"The Commissioner of Police reiterates the Command's commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of citizens to lawful and peaceful protest while maintaining zero tolerance for criminality," the statement read.
Political Reactions and Clarifications
The unrest in Ekpoma has drawn political attention. Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, characterized the event as a coordinated riot, not a peaceful protest, and alleged it was sponsored by a Nigerian living abroad.
Furthermore, the state government has denied assertions that those arrested were students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), stating that the institution was closed at the time of the incident. Authorities emphasized that arrests were made based on video evidence clearly showing individuals engaged in violent acts.
The police have urged residents to remain calm, rely only on verified information from official channels, and assured that security agencies will continue operations to maintain peace and prevent further criminal activity across Edo State.
