More than a week after the anti-kidnapping protests in Ekpoma, Edo State, which later turned violent and led to several arrests, a civil society group has called for the immediate release of Collins Aigbogun, a former Special Adviser to Governor Monday Okpebholo, from police custody.
The Edo State Civil Society Coalition for Human Rights, in a statement issued on Monday, said Aigbogun has been unfairly detained despite the absence of credible evidence linking him to the protests. Aigbogun was reportedly arrested as one of the alleged masterminds of the demonstrations. He was subsequently relieved of his appointment by the governor last week but has remained in detention.
The statement, signed by the coalition’s Coordinator-General, Marxist Edokpayi, and Secretary-General, Aghatise Raphael, warned the police against making arrests without regard for constitutional provisions. The group questioned the basis for Aigbogun’s continued detention, especially after Governor Okpebholo reportedly claimed the protest was sponsored by a Russia-based individual.
Citing Section 36(12) of the 1999 Constitution, the coalition stressed that no citizen should be punished or detained for an offence that is not clearly defined by law or supported by evidence. According to the group, the police have so far failed to present any proof linking Aigbogun to the organisation or sponsorship of the protest.
The coalition described his continued detention as a violation of constitutional safeguards, warning that it could create the impression of political persecution and further erode public trust in law enforcement and democratic governance. It also expressed concern that while criminal elements continue to operate freely, citizens exercising their civic rights are being harassed and detained.
Appealing directly to Governor Okpebholo, the group urged him to order Aigbogun’s unconditional release in the interest of justice and fairness. It further called on the Nigerian Police Force to act in strict compliance with the Constitution, judicial precedents, and the principles of equity, stressing that security agencies should focus on tackling insecurity rather than suppressing lawful civic engagement.
