Ekpoma violence was a riot, not protest – Edo Govt

The Edo State Government on Tuesday dismissed claims that the recent violence in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, was a protest

In a statement signed by Patrick Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, the government described the incident as a “coordinated riot” aimed at destabilising the state. The statement added that the violence was allegedly orchestrated by a Nigerian resident in Russia and other locations abroad.

Security agencies have reportedly identified the suspected masterminds, who allegedly contacted individuals in Ekpoma and coordinated riots across Ekpoma, Auchi, Irrua, and the Government House in Benin City, with funding traced to diaspora sources.

The government also refuted claims that those arrested were students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) or that arrests took place inside student hostels. It clarified that the university is currently closed and students had vacated the hostels before the incident.

“The government firmly refuted claims that those arrested and facing prosecution in connection with the violence were students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, or that their arrests were made inside student hostels,” the statement said.

Authorities said the suspects were intercepted while allegedly heading to vandalise property on the university campus, while others were identified from viral videos showing arson and destruction.

“The suspects arrested are rioters, not peaceful protesters,” the statement added, noting that most arrests were supported by clear evidence, including video footage linking the individuals to the violence. The government stressed that the incident had no connection with AAU students or the National Association of Nigerian Students.

The unrest follows the January 9 kidnapping and killing of a young man in Ekpoma, an incident that had sparked fear and outrage among residents, particularly AAU students.

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