By: The daily torch media
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has strongly condemned the attack on the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, His Royal Highness Zaiki Anthony Abumere II, describing it as unjustifiable.
What began as a peaceful protest in Ekpoma over rising insecurity and frequent kidnappings turned violent after hoodlums hijacked the demonstration, unleashing chaos in the community.
The miscreants reportedly stormed the local livestock market, chased away traders, slaughtered goats, assaulted cattle, and vandalized parts of the Onojie’s palace.
The unrest also led to the blockade of a major highway, crippling commercial activities in the area.
Governor Okpebholo, during a visit to the palace on Monday to assess the extent of the damage, condemned the actions in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele.
He said there was no justification for attacking a revered traditional institution, stressing that grievances about insecurity must be addressed through lawful and respectful channels.
We’ve recorded major successes already. In Edo North, nine kidnap victims were rescued unharmed, and their abductors apprehended. Now we’re shifting full attention to Edo Central,” he said.
He warned that those who hijacked the protest to loot and vandalise the palace would face the full force of the law.
“Coming under the guise of protest to unleash violence is unacceptable. We will go after them the same way we go after kidnappers. No one should test our resolve.”
The governor, reiterating his deep ties to the area, concluded, “I am an Esan man, and I got my highest number of votes from Ekpoma. I will not fold my arms and watch criminals destroy this land. Our response will be swift and decisive.
