Edo Activist Alleges Brutality by Armed Vigilantes, Demands Justice

An Edo-based activist, Okhai Okhani, has raised alarm over a violent attack allegedly carried out by armed vigilantes during a political summit in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.

According to reports monitored by iReporter Online, the incident occurred during a stakeholders’ forum convened by Okhani, who serves as the coordinator of Edo North Unity Worldwide. The event was aimed at reviewing the performance of public officeholders across the Edo North Senatorial District.

In a telephone interview from a hospital where he is reportedly receiving treatment, Okhani recounted how over 50 armed vigilantes and thugs stormed the venue, disrupted the proceedings, and unleashed violence on participants. He claimed the attackers arrived on motorcycles, vandalized the event setup, destroyed valuables, and physically assaulted guests, including himself.

Video footage circulating online appears to show the activist being beaten and dragged into a vehicle, where he said the assault continued with the use of machetes, clubs, and rifle butts. He was later taken to the Auchi Area Command of the Nigeria Police, where he claimed he was detained for over four hours without formal charges.

Okhani stated that the venue—a public event centre—was officially approved for use by the acting Chairman of Etsako West LGA, Valentine Okuilagwe. He also noted that invitations had been extended to several key political figures from the region, including Senator Adams Oshiomhole, Peter Akpatason, Anamero Sunday, and Hussein Mustapher.

Describing the attack as politically motivated, Okhani suggested that the incident may have been orchestrated by individuals threatened by the event’s purpose—an open review of elected officials’ performance. He further accused unnamed political actors in Edo North of weaponising local vigilante networks to suppress civic engagement and silence dissent.

The activist revealed he suffered multiple injuries, including trauma to his head and ribs, and called on the Nigeria Police, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services, and the Edo State Government to investigate the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice. He also appealed to the public for prayers and solidarity, warning against the rising misuse of vigilante operatives for political ends.

When contacted, a spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, SP Moses Iyamu, confirmed that the command is aware of the matter and has launched an investigation.