Edo Protest Unrest Orchestrated from Russia, Says Okpebholo

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has alleged that the unrest which erupted in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, last Saturday was masterminded by a Nigerian resident based in Russia.

The governor made the claim while reacting to protests that followed a surge in kidnappings in Ekpoma and neighbouring communities, which prompted residents and students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) to take to the streets. The situation later escalated, drawing the intervention of security agencies, leading to arrests, court appearances and detentions that sparked public outrage.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Okpebholo dismissed the incident as a legitimate protest, describing it instead as a coordinated riot.

“The incident was not a protest, but a well-organised riot sponsored by a Nigerian resident in Russia and other locations overseas,” the governor said.

According to the statement, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, security agencies have identified the alleged masterminds, who reportedly reached out to individuals in Ekpoma to organise simultaneous riots in Ekpoma, Auchi, Irrua and even around the Government House in Benin City, with financial backing from the diaspora.

The government said arrests were made based on “clear evidence, including a video showing acts of violence and destruction,” stressing that those detained were not peaceful demonstrators.

“The suspects arrested are rioters, not peaceful protesters,” Okpebholo stated, adding that “the incident has no connection whatsoever with students or the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).”

The Edo State Government also debunked a viral video circulating online and presented as evidence of a kidnapping in Ekpoma, describing it as a misrepresentation aimed at spreading fear, misleading residents and discrediting the administration.

“There are also strong indications that opposition elements, possibly with foreign backing, are sponsoring the unrest in a bid to discredit the Edo State Government and create chaos,” the statement added.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, Okpebholo said the government is working closely with security agencies to maintain law and order across the state.

While acknowledging that peaceful protest is a constitutional right, he warned that “violence, rioting, vandalism and looting will not be tolerated under any circumstances.”

Residents of Ekpoma were assured that the situation is under control as calm gradually returns, while the public was urged to disregard fake videos and unverified reports and continue their lawful activities.

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