The Edo State Police Command has restored normalcy in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, following a protest that was hijacked by violent elements, leading to property damage and injuries.
According to the Command, the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, had earlier adopted proactive measures after receiving intelligence on a planned protest. On Sunday, January 4, 2026, the police boss visited Ekpoma as part of the Command’s preventive policing strategy, where he convened a stakeholders’ meeting involving community leaders, students’ representatives, and other interest groups to address grievances and promote peaceful conduct.
However, when the protest commenced on January 10, it reportedly degenerated after being hijacked, resulting in vandalism of shops, looting of property, and other acts of violence. During the unrest, a military personnel was alleged to have discharged a firearm, injuring a protester.
In response, CP Agbonika promptly led tactical reinforcements from the State Command Headquarters in Benin to Ekpoma, working alongside the Area Commander and other security agencies. Through coordinated deployments and professional crowd-control operations, order was restored and normal activities resumed in the town.
The Commissioner of Police has since visited the injured protester, identified as 32-year-old Osagie Abraham, who is receiving treatment at Eromoele Medical Centre, Ekpoma. He ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the shooting incident. The military personnel involved has been identified, and the appropriate military authorities have been notified for necessary disciplinary action. Suspects linked to acts of vandalism and looting have also been arrested, while investigations continue.
Reaffirming citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful protest, CP Agbonika stressed that such actions must be conducted lawfully and without infringing on public safety or private property.
Addressing residents’ concerns over kidnapping, the police boss assured that the Command has intensified intelligence-led operations, strategic patrols, and targeted interventions to curb the crime across Edo State, including Ekpoma.
The Edo State Police Command urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring that the situation is under control, while commending the public for their cooperation in maintaining peace and order.
