he Edo State Government says security agencies have uncovered a plot behind the recent unrest in Ekpoma, Esan West, describing it as a well-organized riot allegedly supported by foreign-based individuals rather than a genuine protest.
In a statement on Tuesday, Patrick Ebojele, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, said social media reports framing the violence as a protest were false and misleading. “Security agencies have identified the masterminds who allegedly coordinated riots across Ekpoma, Auchi, Irrua, and even the Government House in Benin City, with funding from the diaspora”, the statement said.
The government clarified that those arrested were not students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, and were apprehended while allegedly heading to vandalize property on campus. Viral videos of the incident reportedly show the suspects committing acts of arson.
Authorities stressed that the arrests were evidence-based and reiterated that the suspects are rioters, not peaceful protesters. The government also denied any involvement of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and debunked a viral video falsely depicting a kidnapping in Ekpoma, calling it part of a campaign to spread fear and mislead residents.
“There are indications that opposition elements, possibly with foreign backing, are sponsoring the unrest to discredit the Edo State Government”, the statement added.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, the government assured residents that peace is returning to Ekpoma. It reminded the public that peaceful protest is allowed, but violence, rioting, and vandalism will not be tolerated, and urged residents to ignore fake videos and unverified reports.
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