The Edo State Police Command has provided a detailed update on the recent security operations in Ekpoma, explicitly stating that no individual engaged in peaceful protest was arrested, countering narratives circulating on social media.
This clarification comes after a major deployment of security forces to the area and the arrest of fifty-two (52) persons now facing trial for alleged criminal acts linked to the protest’s disruption.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, personally oversaw the heavy deployment of police personnel in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Edo State Security Corp (ESSC), and local hunters.
The operation, also joined by the Commander of the 4 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmed Olatunboju Balogun, aims to sustain public safety and tackle kidnapping and other criminal activities in the region.
According to a statement released on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, investigations into the disruption of a peaceful protest in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, led to the arrests.
The suspects are alleged to have participated in violent acts including vandalism, assault occasioning harm, looting, rioting, and cruelty to animals. A specific incident involved the suspects forcibly entering the palace of the Enogie of Ekpoma, His Royal Highness Anthony Ehizogie Abumere, where they allegedly assaulted the monarch and his wife and maliciously destroyed property.
“The Edo State Police Command guarantees that no peaceful protester was arrested, but were rather charged to go home and maintain peace,” the statement read, addressing what it termed “unfounded reports.” It confirmed that the 52 arrested suspects have since been arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction.
CP Agbonika reiterated the Command’s commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of citizens to lawful assembly while maintaining a zero-tolerance stance for criminality, violence, and acts that infringe on the rights of others.
The public is advised to disregard unverified reports and rely only on official communication from the Command. The police also expressed appreciation for the cooperation of law-abiding citizens and assured of their unwavering resolve to maintain peace and security across Edo State.
Discussion about this post