Edo Police Launch Probe After Soldier Shoots Protester During Ekpoma Demonstration, Say Victim In Hospital
January 11, 2026
Police Order Probe into Shooting of Protester in Ekpoma
The Edo State Police Command has ordered an immediate investigation into the shooting of a protester by a soldier during a protest in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of the state, clarifying that the victim is alive and currently receiving medical treatment.
In a statement issued on Sunday, January 11, 2026, the command explained that the protest, which occurred on Saturday, was originally intended to be peaceful but was later hijacked by individuals who engaged in vandalism, looting, and other unlawful acts.
The demonstration was sparked by public outrage over the abduction and killing of a young man on January 9, 2026, allegedly by suspected kidnappers.
According to the statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, personally visited Ekpoma during the protest and subsequently led reinforcements from the Command Headquarters in Benin to restore calm.
“Through coordinated deployments, strategic positioning of personnel, and professional crowd control measures, normalcy was restored across the affected areas,” the statement said.
The police confirmed that the injured protester, identified as 32-year-old Osagie Abraham, is currently receiving medical care at Eromoele Medical Center in Ekpoma.
CP Agbonika has directed a thorough investigation into the shooting incident, noting that the soldier involved has been identified and the appropriate military authorities notified for necessary disciplinary action.
The statement further disclosed that individuals who participated in acts of violence, vandalism, and looting during the protest have been identified and arrested, with investigations ongoing to ensure all those responsible are brought to justice.
While reaffirming citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful protest, the command cautioned that demonstrations must be conducted lawfully and without endangering lives or property.
Addressing concerns over insecurity in the area, CP Agbonika assured residents that the police have intensified intelligence-led operations, strategic patrols, and targeted interventions to curb kidnapping and other crimes across Edo State, including Ekpoma.
The police urged members of the public to remain calm and go about their lawful activities, assuring them that the situation is under control.
The incident, which was captured in a viral video and widely circulated on social media, prompted the Edo State Police Command to clarify the condition of the victim and outline the actions being taken against the soldier involved and other offenders.