After Deadly Ekpoma Protests, Edo Police Shake Up Command With New DPO

The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has approved the appointment of CSP Tomofe Nwabueze as the new Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ekpoma in Esan West Local Government Area.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Nwabueze takes over from the former DPO, Nelson Igbinoba, who was relieved of his position in the aftermath of the violent protests that erupted in Ekpoma, within the Edo Central Senatorial District. The redeployment takes effect immediately.

The development was confirmed in a statement released on Tuesday by the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem.

According to the statement, the decision forms part of ongoing security assessments and strategic adjustments aimed at restoring peace and stability in the town.

“The Edo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that following a comprehensive security review and strategic repositioning in Ekpoma, the Commissioner of Police has approved the reorganisation of the Ekpoma Division.

“Consequently, CSP Tomofe Nwabueze has been posted to assume duty as the new Divisional Police Officer with immediate effect,” the statement said.

The unrest in Ekpoma began last Saturday when residents staged a protest over worsening insecurity, including incidents of kidnapping and the killing of a young man the previous night.

Although the protest started peacefully, it was later taken over by hoodlums who attacked traders at the livestock market. Videos that later went viral showed animals being killed and injured during the chaos.

The attackers also vandalised the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II, sparking widespread outrage.

Governor Monday Okpebholo condemned the violence and destruction of property, describing the attack on the traditional ruler’s palace as unacceptable.