The Edo State Police Command has ordered an immediate investigation into the shooting of a protester by a soldier during a demonstration in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, assuring the public that the victim is alive and receiving medical care.
In a statement released on Sunday, January 11, 2026, the police said the protest, which began peacefully on Saturday, was hijacked by individuals who engaged in vandalism, looting, and other unlawful activities.
The demonstration was reportedly sparked by the abduction and killing of a young man on January 9, allegedly by suspected kidnappers.
According to ASP Eno Ikoedem, the Police Public Relations Officer, Commissioner of Police CP Monday Agbonika personally visited Ekpoma during the protest and later led reinforcements from Benin to restore order.
“Through coordinated deployments, strategic positioning of personnel, and professional crowd control measures, normalcy was restored across the affected areas,” the statement read.
The police confirmed that the 32-year-old protester, Osagie Abraham, is receiving treatment at Eromoele Medical Center, Ekpoma. Agbonika has ordered a thorough investigation into the shooting, with the soldier involved already identified and the military authorities notified for disciplinary action.
The statement added that individuals responsible for acts of violence, vandalism, and looting have been arrested, and further investigations are ongoing to ensure accountability.
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While reiterating that citizens have a constitutional right to protest, the Command emphasized that demonstrations must remain peaceful and not endanger others.
Agbonika also reassured the public regarding local insecurity, stating that the police are conducting “intensified intelligence-led operations, strategic patrols, and targeted tactical interventions to decisively curb kidnapping across Edo State, including Ekpoma.”
The incident, widely circulated on social media, prompted the police to clarify the status of the victim and outline actions being taken against both the soldier and other offenders. Residents were urged to remain calm and continue their lawful activities as security agencies maintain control.