Over 50 Arrested After Violent Ekpoma Protest

Security agencies in Edo State have taken into custody more than 50 people in connection with the violent protest that rocked Ekpoma in Esan West Local Government Area last Saturday.

The arrests were carried out across different parts of the town following reports of widespread disorder during the demonstration.

The protest, which was triggered by grievances in the community, turned violent as several shops were broken into and the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma was attacked.

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Those detained were transported in a police van to a court in Edo State, where they are expected to be formally charged. Relatives and sympathisers of the suspects were seen gathered around the court premises awaiting developments.

Journalists were barred from accessing the courtroom as security operatives sealed off the area while proceedings were underway.

Confirming the arrests, Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, said the suspects were picked up for their alleged roles in the looting and acts of violence recorded during the protest.