The Edo State Police Command has ordered a reorganisation of the Ekpoma Police Division in Esan West Local Government Area as part of ongoing security assessment and strategic repositioning in the area.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Eno Ikoedem. According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, approved the changes in response to recent security challenges and public unrest in Ekpoma.
As part of the reorganisation, the CP also approved the posting of CSP Tomofe Nwabueze as the new Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Ekpoma Division, with immediate effect. The move, the command said, is aimed at strengthening security operations, restoring public confidence, and improving policing outcomes in the area.
“The Edo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that as part of ongoing security assessment and strategic repositioning in Ekpoma, the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, Monday Agbonika, has ordered the reorganisation of the Ekpoma Division,” the statement read.
“The CP has also approved the posting of CSP Tomofe Nwabueze to assume office as the new DPO with immediate effect.”
Ekpoma has recently been gripped by tension following a protest by residents over rising insecurity, including cases of kidnapping and the killing of a youth on Friday night. The protest, which began peacefully on Saturday, saw demonstrators block a major highway to express their grievances.
However, the situation later escalated when hoodlums reportedly hijacked the protest, attacking traders at the livestock market. Several animals were killed or injured, and traders were assaulted in scenes captured in viral videos.
The unrest further worsened with the vandalisation of the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II, an act strongly condemned by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo.
The police spokesperson also confirmed that one person was shot by a soldier during the crisis, noting that the incident has been referred to military authorities for investigation.
The police command assured residents that proactive measures are being taken to restore law and order and prevent a recurrence of violence in Ekpoma.
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