Indigenes of Akoko-Edo have announced plans to stage a peaceful protest later this month, citing years of alleged neglect, underdevelopment, and poor political representation in the local government area.
A press statement issued by the Select Committee of Akoko Edo Development Association (AEDA) representing concerned stakeholders called on indigenes and residents to “rise with a renewed sense of duty and responsibility” to demand better governance and accountability from elected officials.
The protest is scheduled to take place on March 30, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in front of the Akoko-Edo Local Government Secretariat in Igarrra.
According to the statement, the community has long endured what it described as “systematic neglect,” including deteriorating infrastructure, insecurity, and limited economic opportunities for young people.
The group also accused political leaders of using the area as a “stepping stone” during elections, only to abandon it afterward.
“Akoko-Edo faces challenges no community should bear,” the statement read, listing worsening insecurity, dilapidated state and federal roads, chronic underdevelopment, rising youth unemployment, and what it termed persistent discrimination.
The committee further claimed that multiple attempts to engage government authorities—through letters, appeals, and consultations—have yielded little or no response. It also expressed concern over what it described as the silence of elected representatives and the absence of local leadership during critical moments.
“Our elected officials, who should be accountable to us, have chosen to remain silent,” the statement said, adding that the local government chairman has been notably absent when leadership was most needed.
Framing the planned demonstration as both lawful and necessary, the organizers emphasized that the protest would be peaceful and aimed at drawing wider attention to the community’s grievances.
“This is not just a protest. It is a civic responsibility’ It is a stand for justice and a declaration that Akoko-Edo will no longer be silent.”
The statement which was jointly signed by Mary Opii and Edith Aiyede for the Association encouraged stakeholders to attend with placards and messages reflecting their concerns, as the community seeks to collectively demand improved security, infrastructure, and inclusive development.
As of press time, there has been no official response from local or state government authorities regarding the planned protest or the allegations raised.qq