Inside Edo
Ekpoma Unrest: 'Even my own father would face justice if involved' – Okpebholo vows
Written By: Ehioze Gilbert
13 Jan 2026 03:23 PM
Ekpoma, Edo – In a strong display of resolve amid tensions in Ekpoma, Esan West local government area of Edo state, Governor Monday Okpebholo has declared that his administration will pursue justice without fear or favor following recent violence that saw shops razed and properties damaged.
During a visit to the fire-ravaged scene at the POWA Shops area near the Ekpoma Police Division where several shops were destroyed in a fire on Sunday, January 11, 2026, the governor directly addressed affected traders and residents.
He dismissed widespread claims attributing the broader insecurity and related incidents to Fulani herdsmen, instead pointing to political elements intent on destabilizing the region.
The unrest stemmed from a peaceful protest on Saturday, January 10, 2026, against escalating kidnappings and insecurity in the university town of Ekpoma home to Ambrose Alli University.
The demonstration was reportedly hijacked by hoodlums, leading to vandalism, including attacks on a livestock market, destruction at the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, and other acts of violence.
The governor, who emphasized his personal connection as an Esan indigene with strong support from the area, stressed that such criminality would not be tolerated.
In a powerful statement underscoring his commitment to impartial enforcement of the law, Okpebholo declared: "I will not listen to anybody when the time comes. Even if it were my own father involved in kidnapping, violence, or destruction, he would be brought to justice. No one is above the law."
This emphatic pledge highlights the governor's determination to hold perpetrators accountable, regardless of their status, influence, or personal ties.
To support recovery, Okpebholo announced that reconstruction of the affected shops would commence within the week, urging traders to stay calm while assuring full government backing and intensified security measures.
He described recent events as part of a coordinated pattern of attacks, with intelligence pointing to external sponsorship in some reports.
The governor's visit and assurances come as security operations continue across Edo Central Senatorial District.
With this firm stance on justice and swift intervention, Governor Okpebholo aims to restore peace and confidence in Ekpoma while addressing underlying security challenges head-on.
During a visit to the fire-ravaged scene at the POWA Shops area near the Ekpoma Police Division where several shops were destroyed in a fire on Sunday, January 11, 2026, the governor directly addressed affected traders and residents.
He dismissed widespread claims attributing the broader insecurity and related incidents to Fulani herdsmen, instead pointing to political elements intent on destabilizing the region.
The unrest stemmed from a peaceful protest on Saturday, January 10, 2026, against escalating kidnappings and insecurity in the university town of Ekpoma home to Ambrose Alli University.
The demonstration was reportedly hijacked by hoodlums, leading to vandalism, including attacks on a livestock market, destruction at the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, and other acts of violence.
The governor, who emphasized his personal connection as an Esan indigene with strong support from the area, stressed that such criminality would not be tolerated.
In a powerful statement underscoring his commitment to impartial enforcement of the law, Okpebholo declared: "I will not listen to anybody when the time comes. Even if it were my own father involved in kidnapping, violence, or destruction, he would be brought to justice. No one is above the law."
This emphatic pledge highlights the governor's determination to hold perpetrators accountable, regardless of their status, influence, or personal ties.
To support recovery, Okpebholo announced that reconstruction of the affected shops would commence within the week, urging traders to stay calm while assuring full government backing and intensified security measures.
He described recent events as part of a coordinated pattern of attacks, with intelligence pointing to external sponsorship in some reports.
The governor's visit and assurances come as security operations continue across Edo Central Senatorial District.
With this firm stance on justice and swift intervention, Governor Okpebholo aims to restore peace and confidence in Ekpoma while addressing underlying security challenges head-on.
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