A federal high court in Edo State on Monday, January 12, ordered the remand of 52 protesters over alleged malicious damage and armed robbery following a demonstration against kidnapping in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area (LGA)
The protesters, including students from Ambrose Alli University (AAU), were taken into custody after a protest on Saturday, January 10, turned violent, resulting in the vandalization and looting of shops and other properties.
Presiding Judge William Aziegbemi said the court lacked jurisdiction over the matter and directed the defendants’ lawyers to file their bail applications at the Ubiaja High Court. The case was adjourned to February 26, with the suspects remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre.
Residents of Ekpoma and surrounding communities had marched through major roads carrying placards to protest the rising wave of kidnappings in the area, calling for government intervention.
The Edo State Police Command said the protest was hijacked, leading to looting, vandalism, and attacks on property, including the palace of Zaiki Anthony Abumere II, the Onojie of Ekpoma—a move condemned by Governor Monday Okpebholo.
Security forces, including police and military personnel, were deployed to restore order after violence escalated. During the incident, military personnel reportedly discharged a firearm, injuring a 32-year-old protester, Osagie Abraham, who is currently receiving treatment at a medical facility in Ekpoma. The military has been notified to take appropriate action against the personnel involved.
The police reiterated that citizens have a constitutional right to protest, but such demonstrations must be peaceful and within the bounds of the law. They also assured residents that security operations would be intensified to tackle kidnapping and other crimes across the state.
The protest followed a surge in kidnappings in Edo State, including recent abductions and the killing of doctors, which has heightened public concern.
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