The Edo State Police Command has officially commenced an investigation into a tragic incident where a soldier reportedly shot a man during a massive protest against kidnapping in Ekpoma. The protest, which took place on Sunday, January 11, 2026, saw hundreds of residents blocking the busy Benin-Auchi highway to demand government action against the frequent abductions of travelers and locals. The situation turned chaotic when a confrontation occurred between security personnel and the demonstrators who refused to clear the road.
Witnesses at the scene reported that the soldier fired his weapon during the attempt to disperse the crowd, hitting a young man who was among the protesters. The victim was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, though his current condition remains a subject of concern among the local population. The shooting sparked further outrage, with protesters accusing the security agencies of using excessive force against citizens who were simply demanding their right to safety.
The Police Public Relations Officer for the Edo Command confirmed that they are working closely with the military authorities to identify the personnel involved and determine the exact circumstances that led to the discharge of the firearm. The military has yet to issue an official statement, but the police have appealed for calm, assuring the public that no one found guilty of professional misconduct will be shielded. This incident has added a dangerous layer of volatility to an already fragile situation in Edo Central, where the community’s trust in security forces is being severely tested by both the kidnapping crisis and this recent act of violence.
