Violence swept through Agenebode, Edo State, on Sunday, as outraged youths clashed with police over allegations of kidnappings and organ harvesting by suspected Fulani groups.
This was caused by the kidnapping and gruesome murder of a young boy, despite a ransom payment.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident began with the kidnapping of the young boy weeks ago. Despite paying a ransom of ₦2.5-3 million, the boy was not released.
Local youths tracked the boy’s phone to a suspect, who was handed over to the police.
Further investigation linked the suspect to a Hausa/Fulani community leader.
Frustrated with the police’s handling, youths stormed the station, seized the suspect, and allegedly obtained a confession.
The suspect revealed that kidnapped victims were murdered, and their organs harvested. Enraged youths then dug up the boy’s decomposing body and discovered human bones, believed to belong to other victims.
“We tracked the boy’s phone to the suspect, and he confessed to the crime,” a protester said. “The police were supposed to protect us, but they’re now protecting the kidnappers.”
One of the protesting youths voiced their frustration, saying, “Enough is enough; this has to end. The police kill our children and still take money from us. These kidnappers abduct our children, collect money—₦2.5 million, sometimes ₦3 million—and still end up killing the victims.”
Edo State officials, including Assistant Inspector General of Police Zone 5, Arungwa Udo, and Commissioner of Police, Nemi Edwin-Iwo, intervened to restore order. The Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, responded briefly via text, stating, “Will get back to you ASAP.”
The violence resulted in loss of life and property damage, with vehicles inside the police station set ablaze.
Council Chairman, Mrs. Benedicta Atoh, was reportedly too shocked to comment.
