The Edo Police Command has detained eight suspects linked to the murder of Efe Ogbeide, a site engineer, amid community leadership conflicts in Benin. Joshua Edo, the youth chairman, is identified as the main suspect. The incident has provoked protests advocating for justice and better protection for persons with disabilities, as the victim was deaf.
The Edo Police Command has detained eight individuals in connection with the alleged murder of site engineer Efe Ogbeide, occurring amidst a leadership dispute in Obazagbon Community, Benin. CSP Moses Yamu, the command’s spokesperson, confirmed the detentions, naming Joshua Edo, the community youth chairman, as the primary suspect, alongside seven others.
Yamu indicated that the suspects were apprehended by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit from the Iyekogba Division at various locations. The unrest that led to Ogbeide’s death was attributed to ongoing disputes related to the community’s leadership roles, resulting in fatalities and significant property damage.
Commissioner of Police, Betty Isokpan, expressed condemnation of the violence and affirmed that those responsible will face severe legal consequences. She assured the community of the security agencies’ commitment to protecting residents and their properties.
The murder of Ogbeide has incited notable public outcry, prompting protests from civil society organizations. The Network for the Advancement of People with Visible Disabilities, along with the Edo State Civil Society Organisations, protested, led by Executive Director Melody Omosha, who highlighted the victim’s struggles and the lack of warning he might have received due to his hearing impairment.
The organizations are advocating vehemently for justice and improved protection measures for individuals with disabilities within the state, emphasizing the need for systemic change in response to such violent incidents.
This tragic event highlights the critical need for community stability and effective leadership. The Edo Police’s swift action in detaining suspects, along with the commitment of the Commissioner of Police to uphold justice, reflects an appropriate response to the situation. Moreover, the public’s advocacy for the rights and protection of individuals with disabilities showcases a significant societal push towards ensuring safety for all citizens, particularly vulnerable populations.
Original Source: punchng.com
