Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo said the protests and violence that broke out in Ekpoma last week was not a simple protest but a “well-organised riot” funded from abroad, and he vowed to bring the organisers to justice.
Okpebholo told reporters the unrest — which began as a demonstration over local insecurity and the killing of a young man — was “bankrolled by a Nigerian resident in Russia and other locations overseas.”
He said intelligence reports showed efforts to stage synchronised attacks in Ekpoma, Auchi, Irrua and even at the Government House in Benin City.
The demonstration turned violent, with videos showing looting and damage.
Local media reported that hoodlums attacked parts of the Onojie of Ekpoma’s palace, chased traders from a livestock market and set fire to property — actions the governor strongly condemned as unacceptable.
Authorities say the violence was a cover for criminal acts rather than peaceful protest.
Security agencies have been working to identify and arrest suspects.
The Edo government said investigators traced financial links to the diaspora and have identified suspected masterminds who contacted people in Ekpoma and other towns.
Police and state security teams have arrested a number of suspects and begun investigations.
The state government has urged calm and promised legal action.
At the same time, some residents and civil-society voices warned against rushing to blame organisers without full transparency.
Local officials said they were arranging for the humane handling of detainees and would press charges where evidence supports prosecution.
As investigators continue, Edo officials say they will publish findings and urged the public to avoid sharing unverified footage that could inflame tensions.
