By Blessing Chinelo
Edo State, Jan 12, 2026
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has strongly condemned the violent attack on the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, HRH Zaiki Anthony Ehizojie Abumere II, following a protest that blocked a major highway and resulted in widespread destruction of property. The governor visited the palace to personally assess the damage and reassured residents that decisive security operations are imminent.
Accompanied by senior government officials, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, and APC leaders, including state chairman Emperor Jarrett Tenebe and Edo Central senatorial leader General Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd), Governor Okpebholo was shown destroyed vehicles, damaged doors and windows, broken canopies and chairs, and looted cartons of Indomie noodles belonging to the Onojie’s wife.
Governor Okpebholo Warns Against Lawlessness During Protests
Governor Okpebholo described the palace invasion as criminal and unacceptable, stressing that peaceful protests must never serve as an excuse for looting or vandalism.
“They came under the guise of protest and sentiments, then resorted to looting and violence. This is unacceptable. We will go after them the same way we are going after kidnappers. Nobody should test our patience,” he said.
The governor emphasised the government’s commitment to security across Edo Central, noting that earlier operations in Edo North and Edo South had successfully rescued kidnapped persons and arrested perpetrators.
Security Measures and Technology-Driven Operations Planned
Governor Okpebholo revealed that Edo State has rolled out strategic, technology-driven security operations focused on Ekpoma and the surrounding areas.
“We have carried out operations in Edo North and Edo South, and now we are in Edo Central. We will leave no stone unturned. The first operation was very successful—nine kidnapped persons in Etsako West were rescued unhurt and the kidnappers were arrested,” he explained.
He also highlighted his personal stake in the peace of Ekpoma, saying:
“I am an Esan man and I got my highest votes here in Ekpoma. I will not allow bad things to happen in this land. In the coming days, our actions will speak for themselves. Nobody involved in this criminality will be spared.”
Onojie of Ekpoma Reacts: Blames Drugs and Chaos
The Onojie, Zaiki Anthony Ehizojie Abumere II, described the attack as unfortunate, alleging that many protesters were under the influence of illicit drugs.
Also Read: Edo Govt Urges Calm After Ekpoma Protests as Okada, Keke Movement Restricted
“What transpired was very sad. Many of them were under the influence of drugs. If not for God’s intervention, something worse would have happened,” he said.
The monarch added that he initially tried to address the protesters but was prevented, and that they returned later, forcing their way into the palace and unleashing destruction.
Governor Okpebholo reassured the Onojie and the people of Ekpoma that peace, law, and order will be fully restored across Edo Central, with perpetrators swiftly brought to justice.
