Ekpoma Stakeholders Condemn Riot, Call for Unity and Peaceful Rebuilding

Ekpoma, Edo State | January 16, 2026

The Concerned Ekpoma Eminent Stakeholders Forum (CEESF) has issued a strong condemnation of the recent violent disturbances in Ekpoma, describing the incident as a riot rather than a legitimate protest and calling for renewed unity, peace, and collective responsibility in rebuilding the community.

In a statement released on Saturday 10 January 2026, the Forum expressed deep concern over the destruction that followed the unrest, noting that individuals who allegedly disguised themselves as protesters engaged in arson, looting, and gun violence. According to CEESF, the violence resulted in extensive damage to private and public property, including the revered palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, and left many residents—among them the Queen—displaced and economically affected.

“The most painful aspect of the crisis was the deliberate destruction of our cultural heritage and the loss of livelihoods suffered by innocent citizens,” the Forum stated. While acknowledging that insecurity remains a national challenge, CEESF emphasized that violence, arson, and criminality cannot be justified as tools for civic engagement or protest.

The Forum lamented that the incident projected Ekpoma in a negative light both nationally and internationally, contrasting the riot with CEESF’s longstanding record of peaceful and effective advocacy. It cited past non-violent protests, including a three-week demonstration against electricity distribution challenges and a two-week protest over the deplorable condition of major expressways—both of which reportedly yielded significant government intervention and measurable progress.

“At no point in our history did we resort to destruction, looting, or violence,” the statement noted. “What occurred in Ekpoma was not civil disobedience; it was a riot, and such actions are unacceptable under any circumstances.”

Despite the gravity of the situation, CEESF struck a hopeful tone, stressing that recovery and progress remain achievable through unity of purpose and collective resolve. The Forum commended Edo State Governor, His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo, for what it described as his humility, fatherly leadership, and swift response in addressing the aftermath of the crisis. CEESF also welcomed the Governor’s commitment to strengthening security measures across the state, emphasizing the need for sustained rapid-response mechanisms to prevent future occurrences.

The Forum called on residents to reject criminality and resist the temptation to harbor offenders for financial or personal gain. It further urged citizens to abandon the misconception that violence is the only means of attracting government attention.

CEESF also expressed solidarity with victims of the riot and offered prayers for those who suffered losses, while appealing for calm and cooperation as the community moves toward recovery.

Special appreciation was extended to elected and appointed political office holders from Edo Central Senatorial District, religious and traditional leaders, serving commissioners, opinion leaders, security agencies, and His Royal Highness, Anthony Ehizojie Abumere II, the Onojie of Ekpoma, for their roles in restoring normalcy.

Reaffirming its commitment to constructive engagement, the Forum announced that its platform would remain open for dialogue but warned that conduct inconsistent with its standards would not be tolerated. CEESF pledged to continue providing leadership and closely monitoring developments to safeguard peace and stability in Ekpoma.

“This is not the time for blame,” the statement concluded. “It is a time to stand together, protect what remains, and collectively confront the threats facing our community. Together, we can rebuild Ekpoma.”

The statement was jointly signed by Comrade Dr. J. Obasanmi, Convener of CEESF, and Den. Comrade L. I. Isiraojie, Secretary.