Edo Governor Alleges Russia-Based Nigerian Sponsored Ekpoma Unrest
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has accused a Nigerian living in Russia and other diaspora actors of sponsoring what authorities describe as a well-organised riot in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, following a weekend demonstration over insecurity.
The events began last Saturday when residents and youths, including some perceived to be from Ambrose Alli University (AAU), took to the streets to protest rising kidnappings and insecurity in Ekpoma and neighbouring communities.
The demonstration, however, devolved into violence, with reports of arson, vandalism and clashes with security operatives. A military personnel reportedly shot and injured a 32-year-old protester, identified as Osagie Abraham.
In a Tuesday statement signed by Patrick Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, the Edo State Government dismissed claims that it was a peaceful protest.
According to the government, security agencies have “identified the suspected masterminds” operating from overseas, including a Nigerian resident in Russia, who allegedly financed and coordinated the unrest.
Governor Okpebholo’s office stated that the sponsors “contacted several individuals within Ekpoma to organise riots not only in the town but also in Auchi, Irrua, and even around the Government House in Benin City,” with funds traced to sources abroad.
The statement stressed that those arrested in connection with the violence were intercepted while allegedly heading to commit acts of vandalism and destruction, and were not “peaceful protesters.”
It further clarified that the unrest had no connection with AAU students or the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), noting that the university was closed at the time and students had vacated hostels prior to the incident.
Addressing concerns over misinformation, the governor’s statement urged the public to “ignore fake videos and unverified reports” that have circulated on social media in the aftermath of the clash, which has since seen several arrests by security agencies.
Authorities said peace and normalcy are “gradually returning” to Ekpoma, and urged residents to remain calm and continue with lawful activities as investigations and security operations continue.
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