Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has claimed that a Nigerian living in Russia helped sponsor the violent protests that erupted in Ekpoma last Saturday, resulting in vandalism, arrests, and the injury of a demonstrator.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, the governor described the event not as a peaceful demonstration but as a “well-organised riot” funded by individuals based overseas, including one residing in Russia.
The protest began as a response by residents and students of Ambrose Alli University to a surge in kidnappings in the Esan West Local Government Area. However, it escalated into violence, with reports of property damage and an incident in which a military personnel shot and injured a 32-year-old protester, Osagie Abraham.
Following the unrest, police arrested 52 individuals, who were subsequently remanded by a Federal High Court on Monday.
Governor Okpebholo asserted that those in custody were rioters identified from viral videos showing acts of arson and vandalism, and not peaceful protesters. He emphasized that the incident had “no connection with students or the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).”
“The arrests were based on clear evidence, including video footage of violence and destruction,” the governor stated. He alleged that some of the suspects were intercepted while heading to vandalize properties.
Okpebholo assured residents that the situation in Ekpoma is under control and that peace is being restored. He urged the public to disregard unverified reports and fake videos circulating online and to continue with their lawful activities.
The governor's allegations introduce a new dimension to the incident, shifting the narrative from a local security protest to one allegedly influenced by external actors. No further details were provided about the alleged sponsor or evidence of foreign involvement.
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