Security operatives on Monday prevented journalists from accessing the courtroom during the arraignment of 52 individuals at the Edo State High Court. The group faced charges following a protest in Ekpoma against escalating killings and kidnapping in the region. This incident sparked public concern over transparency in judicial proceedings.
Courtroom Access Restricted Amidst High Security
The security personnel stationed at the courthouse cited strict orders, permitting only legal counsel to enter the courtroom for the proceedings. This directive effectively blocked media coverage of a high-profile case involving dozens of citizens and raised questions about press freedom during sensitive legal matters. The restriction created a tense atmosphere outside the court premises.
Ekpoma Protest Escalates to Violence and Arrests
The arraignment stems from a demonstration that commenced peacefully on Saturday in Ekpoma, organized by youths and students to voice their anger over a surge in local killings and abductions. However, the demonstration unfortunately turned chaotic, allegedly hijacked by hoodlums who engaged in acts of violence, extensive vandalism, and looting. This escalation led to widespread arrests and a single reported gunshot injury to 32-year-old Osagie Abraham.
Legal Battle Begins for Remanded Protesters
Among the arrested were students from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, all of whom have been remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre in Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State. They face serious charges including malicious damage and armed robbery, offenses purportedly committed during the unrest in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area. Defence counsel expressed dismay, labelling the charges as "bogus" and asserting that no formal complaints had been lodged against many of the defendants.
Justice Williams Aziegbemhin, the presiding judge, declared the court lacked the necessary jurisdiction to hear the case, subsequently directing the defendants' lawyers to file bail applications at the Ubiaja High Court. The judge further ordered the continued remand of the defendants at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre and adjourned the matter until February 26, 2026, for further hearing. Meanwhile, distraught parents gathered outside the court, visibly emotional as they tried to provide food, water, and money to their loved ones before they were transported to Ubiaja in a Black Maria.