Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has strongly condemned the violent attack on the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, His Royal Highness Zaiki Anthony Abumere II.
The attack occurred after a peaceful protest by residents over insecurity and kidnapping was hijacked by hoodlums, who unleashed violence on the community.
The governor visited the palace to assess the damage, which included vandalized vehicles, broken doors and windows, and destroyed property belonging to the monarch’s family.
He stated that there was no justification for invading a traditional institution under the guise of protest and described the actions as criminal and unacceptable.
Governor Okpebholo warned that those responsible would be hunted down and brought to justice, just as his administration is targeting kidnappers. He emphasized that protests must never be used as an excuse for lawlessness and looting.
The royal father described the incident as unfortunate, alleging that many of the attackers were under the influence of drugs. Governor Okpebholo assured residents that decisive, technology-driven security operations were underway in the Edo Central district to restore peace and order.
