Edo Court Remands 52 Protesters Following Violent Anti-Kidnapping Rally In Ekpoma

A federal high court in Edo State on Monday, January 12, remanded 52 protesters over allegations of 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 arrested after a protest on Saturday, January 10, escalated into violence, leading to the looting and vandalization of shops and other properties.

Presiding Judge William Aziegbemi stated that the court lacked jurisdiction over the matter and instructed 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 nearby communities had taken to the streets to protest rising kidnappings in the area, marching with placards and demanding government action.

The Edo State Police Command said the protest was hijacked, resulting in widespread property damage, looting, and an attack on 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. During the incident, a military officer reportedly fired a gun, injuring a 32-year-old protester, Osagie Abraham, who is receiving treatment at a local medical facility. Military authorities have been notified to take action against the personnel involved.

The police stressed that while citizens have a constitutional right to protest, demonstrations must remain peaceful and within legal bounds. They also assured the public that security operations would be intensified to curb kidnappings and other criminal activities in the state.

The protest followed a spike in kidnappings across Edo State, including recent abductions and the killing of medical doctors, which have heightened public concern.