Normalcy has been restored in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, following a protest that was hijacked by miscreants and descended into violence on Saturday, January 10, 2026.
The Edo State Police Command said the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, had earlier visited the town on January 4 after receiving intelligence reports of a planned protest.
He met with community leaders, students’ representatives, and other stakeholders to address concerns and avert a breakdown of law and order.
Despite police presence and coordination with sister security agencies, the protest was later hijacked, leading to vandalisation of shops, looting, and other acts of violence. During the unrest, a military personnel reportedly discharged a firearm, injuring a protester.
In response, CP Agbonika led tactical reinforcements from the State Command Headquarters in Benin City to Ekpoma, Police said order was swiftly restored through coordinated deployments and crowd-control measures.
The injured protester, identified as 32-year-old Osagie Abraham, is receiving medical treatment at Eromoele Medical Centre, Ekpoma.
An investigation into the shooting has been ordered, while military authorities have been notified for appropriate action.
Police also confirmed the arrest of suspects linked to vandalism and looting, with investigations ongoing.
The Commissioner of Police reiterated that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right, it must be conducted lawfully.
He also assured residents that intensified operations are underway to tackle kidnapping and other crimes across Edo State.Residents have been urged to remain calm as normalcy has been fully restored.
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