The Edo State Government has dismissed claims that recent unrest in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, was a protest, describing it instead as a coordinated riot aimed at destabilising the state.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by Patrick Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, the government alleged that the violence was “a well-organised riot sponsored by a Nigerian resident in Russia and other locations overseas.”
According to the statement, security agencies have identified suspected masterminds who allegedly contacted individuals in Ekpoma and coordinated riots across Ekpoma, Auchi, Irrua, and even the Government House in Benin City, with funds traced to diaspora sources.
The government rejected reports that those arrested were students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, or that arrests were made inside student hostels. “The government firmly refuted claims that those arrested and facing prosecution in connection with the violence were students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, or that their arrests were made inside student hostels,” the statement clarified, noting that the university was closed and hostels vacated before the incident.
Authorities said suspects were intercepted while allegedly heading to vandalise property on the AAU campus, while others were identified from viral videos showing arson and destruction. “The suspects arrested are rioters, not peaceful protesters,” the government stressed, adding that the incident had no link to AAU students or the National Association of Nigerian Students.
The unrest followed the January 9 kidnapping and killing of a young man in Ekpoma, which sparked fear and outrage among residents, particularly students.
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