Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has accused an unnamed Nigerian based in Russia of masterminding last Saturday’s unrest in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of the state.
The accusation followed protests by residents and students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) over repeated cases of kidnapping in Ekpoma and neighbouring communities. The protest later escalated, prompting the intervention of security agencies, arrests of some participants, and their subsequent arraignment in court—developments that sparked public outrage.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the governor said the incident was not a peaceful protest but a “well-organised riot” allegedly sponsored from abroad.
“The incident was not a protest, but a well-organised riot sponsored by a Nigerian resident in Russia and other locations overseas,” Okpebholo said. “Security agencies have already identified the masterminds, who contacted individuals in Ekpoma and proposed sponsoring coordinated riots across Ekpoma, Auchi, Irrua, and even the Government House in Benin City, with funding from the diaspora.”
The statement, signed by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, added that arrests were made based on “clear evidence, including videos showing acts of violence and destruction.”
Governor Okpebholo stressed that those arrested were rioters, not peaceful protesters, and insisted that the incident had no connection with students of Ambrose Alli University or the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
The state government also debunked a viral video circulating online and allegedly linked to a kidnapping incident in Ekpoma, describing it as a gross misrepresentation aimed at spreading fear and discrediting the administration.
According to the statement, there are indications that opposition elements, possibly with foreign backing, are sponsoring the unrest to destabilise the state and tarnish the image of the government.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, Okpebholo said the government is working closely with security agencies to maintain law and order across Edo State.
While noting that peaceful protest remains a constitutional right, the government warned that violence, rioting, vandalism and looting would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Residents of Ekpoma were assured that the situation is under control, with peace gradually returning to the town, and were urged to ignore fake videos and unverified reports while going about their lawful activities.
