The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has clarified that police did not arrest peaceful protesters during a recent demonstration in Ekpoma, Edo State.
According to the IGP, the 52 individuals taken into custody were involved in criminal activities, including shop looting and vandalism of the palace of the Enogie of Ekpoma, rather than participating in a lawful protest. He criticized reports suggesting otherwise as misleading.
“Too often, incidents of crime during protests are portrayed as police cracking down on peaceful demonstrators.
“Even when attacks are carried out on officers or police stations, the narrative is twisted against us”, Egbetokun said.
He reassured Nigerians that the police support lawful protests and remain committed to protecting demonstrators who act within the law. “We will not interfere with peaceful assemblies, but anyone who uses protests as cover for crime will be held accountable”, he said.
The arrests were carried out following a federal high court directive after a January 10 protest against kidnapping in Esan West LGA escalated into violence. The demonstration, which included Ambrose Alli University students, reportedly led to the destruction of property and looting of local shops.
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