Edo Protests: Furious Youths Tear Down Tinubu's Billboard Over Kidnapping Concerns

Table of Contents

• Protest Against Kidnapping
• Destruction of Billboard
• Motorcycle Movement Ban
• Government's Response
• Security Strategies

Angry youths in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, on Saturday vandalized a 2027 presidential election billboard of President Bola Tinubu while protesting the kidnapping of a young man by suspected abductors.

According to DAILY POST, the victim, who was kidnapped on Ojo street, Ihumudumu, Ekpoma, on January 9, 2026, was later killed by his alleged captors, who were approximately four in number.

It was reported that the victim was taken at the gate just as he was about to enter his brother’s house.

This incident triggered a violent protest, leading the enraged youths to destroy the billboard and ignite a bonfire on the road.

The protesters also damaged other properties in the vicinity.

A video captured the youths tearing down the billboard erected by the Chairman of Esan West Local Government, Ebhodaghe Albert Blessing.

The defaced billboard bore the message, ‘Asiwaju 2027 is settled’.

In response to the protest and ensuing destruction, the council chairman has prohibited the movement of all commercial and private motorcycles in the area from 7:00 PM daily.

Ebhodaghe stated that the ban takes immediate effect.

“All motorcycle riders and the general public are urged to comply strictly with this order, as security agencies have been directed to enforce it, and violators will face appropriate consequences,” he said.

“We greatly appreciate the cooperation of all residents as the local government works to ensure a safer environment for everyone,” he added.

Additionally, the Edo State government condemned the protest and the vandalism of public and private properties, emphasizing that issues of security necessitate calmness, coordination, and constructive engagement.

A statement signed by Prince Kassim Afegbua, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, read, “The Edo State Government finds it important to clarify matters arising from the recent protest that disrupted traffic in Ekpoma on Saturday, January 10, particularly regarding public perception of the state’s security situation.

“While the government acknowledges the constitutional right of citizens to voice their concerns, it is crucial to clearly state that security matters necessitate calm, coordination, and constructive engagement.

“Actions such as obstructing roads and disrupting movement under the guise of protest do not assist security operations and may inadvertently expose residents to further dangers or be exploited by criminal elements.

“It is noted that since his assumption of office, Governor Monday Okpebholo, who understands the concerns of Edo residents, has consistently responded to legitimate complaints regarding safety.

“However, the government believes that effective security solutions are best achieved through intelligence sharing, community collaboration, and ongoing engagement with security agencies, rather than through unstructured actions that disrupt public order.

“Governor Okpebholo’s security strategy focuses on proactive measures, including strengthening the Edo Security Corps, neighborhood watch initiatives, and continuous interaction with community leaders, traditional institutions, and neighboring states.

“These platforms are available for residents to express security-related concerns, provide valuable information, and contribute meaningfully to the safety of their communities.

“It is important to emphasize that uncoordinated protests regarding security issues can distract security agencies from their ongoing operations and complicate efforts to address criminal activities.

“Therefore, the state urges residents to remain law-abiding, calm, and supportive of security operatives who are tirelessly working to protect lives and property.

“The Edo State Government is open to dialogue and assures the people of Ekpoma and the entire state that security strategies are continuously being reviewed and strengthened in line with Governor Okpebholo’s steadfast commitment to making Edo State safer for all.”