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Ekpoma Protest: Police Deploy Heavy Security, Arrest 52 Suspects Over Violence Claims

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The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 52 suspects following violent disruptions during a protest in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, saying the operation was aimed at stopping criminal activity not silencing peaceful demonstrators.

Police authorities say the suspects were involved in vandalism, looting, assault, and other acts that threatened public safety, amid widespread misinformation circulating on social media.

Heavy security presence in Ekpoma

The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, said he personally supervised the deployment of heavy security across Ekpoma.

He was accompanied by the Commander of the 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Olatunboju Balogun, alongside personnel from the Nigeria Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), and local Hunters.

According to the police, the joint operation was launched to contain rising cases of kidnapping and violent crime in the area.

What police say happened

Police investigations show that the protest was hijacked by groups who allegedly engaged in violent acts.

A total of 52 individuals were arrested for offences including vandalism, rioting, assault causing harm, looting, cruelty to animals, and actions capable of undermining public safety.

The suspects, police say, have already been arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction.

Attack on traditional institution

The Edo State Police Command also alleged that some of the arrested suspects forcibly entered the palace of the Enogie of Ekpoma, His Royal Highness Anthony Ehizogie Abumere.

According to the police statement, the traditional ruler and his wife were assaulted, while parts of the palace were vandalised during the incident.

Police dismiss social media claims

Police authorities moved to counter claims circulating online that peaceful protesters were arrested.

“Contrary to claims circulating on social media, no peaceful protester was arrested,” the Edo State Police Command said.

Instead, officers said demonstrators who conducted themselves peacefully were advised to return home and maintain calm.

Why it matters

The incident highlights growing concerns over how legitimate protests can be infiltrated by criminal elements, escalating tensions and putting communities at risk.

Security experts say such situations often complicate law enforcement responses and fuel public distrust especially when misinformation spreads rapidly online.

Police assure rights protection

The Commissioner of Police reiterated the command’s position on civil liberties.

“The Edo State Police Command remains committed to protecting the constitutional rights of citizens to lawful and peaceful protest, while maintaining zero tolerance for criminality and violence,” CP Agbonika said.

He urged residents to rely on verified information and ignore what he described as “unfounded reports.”

What’s next

Police say security operations will continue across Edo State to prevent further unrest.

Authorities are also urging community leaders and residents to work closely with security agencies to maintain peace.

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Plateau Attack: IGP Disu Orders Massive Security Deployment After Killings in Jos

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Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has ordered a “massive deployment” of security personnel to Plateau State following a deadly attack in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area.

The attack, which claimed the lives of several residents, has heightened concerns over security in the region.

In a statement issued on 1 April by Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the police chief condemned the killings and pledged swift action to restore order.

What happened

The violence occurred in Angwan Rukuba, a community in Jos North, where unidentified attackers reportedly targeted residents, leading to multiple deaths.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the number of casualties, but the incident has sparked fear and tension among residents.

Police response

According to the statement, Mr Disu has deployed additional tactical teams, including Police Mobile Force units and intelligence operatives, to the state.

These teams will work alongside other security agencies to stabilise the situation and track down those responsible.

 “The Inspector-General of Police has… ordered massive deployment of security assets to restore calm and ensure the arrest of those responsible.”

Earlier, the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, Umar Shehu Nadada, was sent to Plateau State to assess the situation and coordinate ongoing security efforts.

The police say operations will continue until “normal conditions return”.

Why it matters

Plateau State has experienced recurring communal and sectarian violence over the years, often linked to land disputes, ethnic tensions, and religious differences.

Security analysts warn that renewed violence could disrupt economic activities, displace communities, and deepen humanitarian concerns in the region.

For residents, the immediate concern remains safety, as many fear further attacks.

Calls for calm

The police chief has urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies.

“Members of the public should remain calm and vigilant… and refrain from taking the law into their own hands.”

He also called on citizens to report suspicious activities to authorities to support ongoing operations.

Industry & public perspective

Security experts say visible policing and community engagement will be critical in preventing further escalation.

Local leaders in Plateau have previously called for sustained federal intervention, warning that short-term deployments often fail to address underlying causes of violence.

What’s next

Authorities say intensified operations will continue across Plateau State, with a focus on:

Arresting perpetrators

Preventing retaliatory attacks

Strengthening intelligence gathering

Residents are expected to see increased patrols and security checkpoints in the coming days.

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Delta Police Hold Walkathon to Boost Community Safety and Officer Fitness

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Delta State Police officers walking during National Police Week 2026 walkathon in Asaba

The Delta State Police Command staged a walkathon on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, as part of the second day of the National Police Week. The event aimed to promote public safety, community engagement, and the physical fitness of officers.

Promoting Visibility and Trust

Starting from the Delta Command Police Headquarters on Okpanam Road, participants covered a 3.2-kilometre route to the Stephen Keshi Stadium and back. The exercise involved officers from the Command and mirrored similar walkathons across all nine Area Commands in Delta State.

“The walkathon reflects our commitment to community-oriented policing,” said Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi John Oyeniyi psc, acipm, mnips. “It demonstrates that our officers are always within reach of the public and ready to ensure their safety.”

He encouraged residents to partner with the police, bring forward complaints, and support initiatives that foster peace.

Why It Matters

Community policing has been increasingly recognised as essential to reducing crime and building public trust in law enforcement. Events like the walkathon help officers maintain fitness while reassuring residents that police are accessible and responsive.

“Visible presence and engagement are key to effective policing,” said SP Bright Edafe, Police Public Relations Officer, Delta State Command. “We want the public to know that we are not only patrolling but actively involved in creating a safe environment for everyone.”

Community and Officer Benefits

Experts note that regular physical activities like walkathons contribute to better officer health, improved morale, and stronger relationships between the police and local communities.

A Delta resident, who took part as a spectator, said: “It’s reassuring to see officers walking among us. It makes the police feel like part of the community, not distant enforcers.”

What’s Next

The Delta State Police Command continues its week-long celebration of National Police Week with further community-oriented activities designed to reinforce public trust and enhance officer engagement.

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Lagos Police Hold Walkathon to Boost Public Trust and Community Safety

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The Lagos State Police Command has held a walkathon in Ikeja as part of activities marking the 2026 National Police Day, aimed at strengthening public trust and community engagement.

The exercise took place on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, with officers walking approximately four kilometres from the Command Headquarters in Ikeja GRA through Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way alongside personnel from the Police College Ikeja.

Senior officers, Area Commanders, and rank-and-file personnel participated in the event.

Why it matters

Police authorities say the initiative is designed to improve visibility and reassure residents of their presence in communities.

Public trust in law enforcement remains a key issue in Nigeria, with repeated calls for more community-based policing and accountability.

By taking officers out of stations and into public spaces, the Command hopes to bridge the gap between citizens and the police.

“Police are within reach”

The Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, said the exercise was a reminder that officers are accessible and committed to public safety.

“The Police are always within reach of the people,” he said, urging residents to support security efforts by reporting concerns.

“We are willing, capable, and ready to address issues professionally and promptly, as policing with humility and integrity remains our watchword.”

Community presence and operational readiness

According to the Command, the walkathon also demonstrated the physical fitness and readiness of officers to respond to security challenges.

Officials say such public-facing initiatives are part of a broader strategy to improve engagement and encourage cooperation from residents.

Industry and public perspective

Security analysts say visible policing can help reduce fear and improve confidence, especially in urban centres like Lagos.

However, they note that sustained trust depends on consistent professionalism, transparency, and accountability in daily operations.

Residents who spoke informally during the event expressed mixed views, with some welcoming the initiative while others called for more concrete reforms.

What’s next

The walkathon is one of several activities lined up for National Police Day celebrations.

Police authorities say more community-focused programmes will follow as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with the public.

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