A peaceful protest organised by the Akoko-Edo Forum (AEF) to highlight alleged decades of neglect in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area was violently disrupted, prompting renewed calls for urgent intervention by federal and state authorities.
The protest, which drew participants from across the local government, was convened to spotlight concerns over poor political representation, deteriorating infrastructure, rising insecurity, and the worsening condition of key roads.
However, the demonstration was cut short after it was reportedly attacked by a group of thugs allegedly led by a local government official
According to the Forum, the group disrupted proceedings despite the presence of security operatives who had been formally invited to maintain order.
It was also stated that the local government official issued verbal threats, physically assaulted some protesters, and directed his associates to harass participants and bystanders.
Security personnel on ground were said to have intervened swiftly, advising demonstrators to disperse in order to prevent further escalation. The protesters subsequently reconvened in Ugbogbo, Igarra, where AEF leaders addressed a press conference.
At the briefing, the AEF Chairman, flanked by representatives from the three zones of the local government, condemned the disruption and reiterated what he described as the “collective frustration of a long-neglected people.”
The Forum commended the Divisional Police Officer in Igarra and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) for averting what it said could have degenerated into a broader breakdown of law and order.
Decades of Neglect, Rising Insecurity
Speakers at the conference painted a grim picture of life in Akoko-Edo, citing years of unaddressed petitions to successive administrations over infrastructural decay and insecurity.
Particular concern was raised over the condition of the Auchi–Igarra–Ibillo road, described as a hotspot for kidnappings and criminal activities due to its dilapidated state.
According to the Forum, the situation has left residents increasingly vulnerable and economically constrained.
They argued that despite its strategic importance, the local government area has suffered “systemic neglect” spanning decades, with little to show in terms of meaningful development or government presence.
Protesters List Sweeping Demands
Central to the demonstration were a series of demands displayed on placards and reiterated at the press briefing. The protesters called for:
- Responsible and accountable political representation for Akoko-Edo people.
- Immediate rehabilitation of bad roads, linking poor infrastructure to governance failure.
- An end to what they described as prolonged political dominance, with calls to allow the area “breathe” politically.
- Equitable distribution of state projects and development initiatives.
- Transparency and delivery of constituency projects allegedly owed to the area.
- Recognition of Akoko-Edo’s unity and collective voice in governance matters.
- An end to political exploitation, urging leaders to stop using the area solely for electoral gains.
- Creation of two additional local government areas to improve administrative efficiency.
- Anti-corruption scrutiny, calling on agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to investigate the council.
- Urgent action to curb kidnappings and insecurity across communities.
- Youth development initiatives, including employment and empowerment opportunities
- Revival or establishment of key educational institutions, including the Edo Polytechnic Igarra campus and a proposed School of Geology and Mining.
- Comprehensive road infrastructure development, insisting on tangible results rather than official excuses.
- Accountability from named political office holders, urging them to justify their stewardship of the Akoko-Edo mandate
The Forum stressed that these demands reflect longstanding grievances and are critical to reversing what it termed the marginalisation of the area. It called on the Federal Government, the Edo State Government, members of the National Assembly, and Nigerians at large to take urgent notice of the situation in Akoko-Edo.
The Association also urged indigenes of the local government area to remain united, resist political manipulation, and sustain peaceful advocacy for justice, equity, and development.
Reaffirming its commitment to non-violent engagement, the Forum vowed to continue its campaign until meaningful change is achieved.
The press statement was jointly signed by Mary Opii and Edith Aiyede on behalf of the Akoko-Edo Forum.