The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has denied claims that the police arrested innocent protesters during the recent violence in Ekpoma, Edo State, insisting that those detained were involved in criminal acts, not lawful demonstrations.
Egbetokun stated this during an interview on Channels Television, following public criticism over the arrest and remand of dozens of persons after the unrest in the university town.
“The narrative that the police picked up peaceful protesters is not correct. It is a false story we are used to,” the IG said.
He explained that the police often face blame after violent incidents that occur under the cover of protests.
“When people commit crimes during protests, the police are still accused of arresting innocent demonstrators,” he said.
According to the police chief, the Force has no problem with lawful protests and will not target citizens who demonstrate peacefully.
“In Ekpoma, the police did not go after anyone for peaceful protest. We are not against it. If you want to protest peacefully, we will protect you,” Egbetokun said.
“What concerns us are those who use protests to carry out violence, vandalise property and loot shops.”
He disclosed that 52 suspects were arrested during the Ekpoma incident, stressing that they were linked to the destruction of property and attacks on the palace of the Enogie of Ekpoma.
“From the reports available to me, the 52 persons arrested were involved in looting and vandalism. They were not peaceful protesters,” he added.
The arrests followed a protest by residents and students over rising insecurity in Ekpoma, which later degenerated into violence after alleged hoodlums hijacked the demonstration.
Several public figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, had criticised the arrests, while the Edo State Government maintained that the incident was a coordinated riot rather than a student protest.
The state government later announced the release of 38 students of Ambrose Alli University who were arrested during the unrest.
