An 18-year-old identified as Chinedu Abimbor was fatally shot by operatives of the Edo State Police Command at a checkpoint in the Ekpoma area of Esan West Local Government Area.
The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, has ignited widespread protests from local youths and family members demanding justice.
Eyewitnesses report that the shooting transpired after Abimbor, driving a Mercedes-Benz, allegedly failed to stop when signaled by police officers.
A witness, who requested anonymity, stated, “The young man’s refusal to stop angered one of the operatives, who immediately fired at the vehicle, killing the victim in the process.”
Abimbor’s younger brother, present in the vehicle during the incident, was subsequently detained by the police.
In response, enraged protesters flooded the streets of Ekpoma on Thursday, demanding accountability for Abimbor’s death and the release of his brother. The demonstrators also convened at the palace of the traditional ruler of Ekpoma, HRH Anthony Ehizogie Abumere II, to voice their grievances.
Lucky Adaba, a spokesperson for the protesters, condemned the police’s actions, stating, “We went to the police station to inquire about what could have led to the killing, but the police teargassed us and started shooting.” He further alleged, “The police have formed the habit of harassing young men driving cars in Ekpoma.”
In reaction to the incident, the Edo State Police Command announced a comprehensive investigation. Moses Yamu, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, confirmed that the event involved a joint security team and the occupants of an unregistered Mercedes-Benz.
Commissioner of Police Betty Otimenyin ordered the immediate withdrawal of the three patrol teams implicated in the shooting. The Command extended condolences to Abimbor’s family and assured the public that “justice will be served in the end.”
