Policemen, youths injured during clash in Edo

By Ozioruva Aliu

BENIN CITY – THE Edo State Police Command and leaders of Ogbeson Community, Ovia North East local government on Monday traded blames over an attack that led to several policemen hospitalised.

It was gathered that some members of Ogbeson community also sustained gunshot injuries in several parts of their bodies.

The incident was said to have happened on Saturday when members of Ogbeson Community gathered at the Oguedion (Elders council) to celebrate.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the State Command, Eno Ikoedem, said some policemen were in the community over a petition when youths of Ogbeson opened fire on the police team adding that the policemen were asked to investigate lingering communal clash in the area.

She said “Some officers were detailed to investigate the communal crisis. They went to invite leaders of the community who were in the town hall and they didn’t care to listen to the policemen. The policemen tried to state their mission but the youths did not listen. They were able to arrest seven of them and recover some arms.”

But youths and elders of the community denied attacking policemen.

They said the policemen were led by vigilante and members of the Iguoshodin, a community they had been battling over autonomous status

Hon Best Ugbosisi said he escaped being shot because he left the Oguedion moments before the attack.

He said, “I got a call that policemen, vigilantes and members of Iguoshodin community invaded our Oguedion where we were celebrating.

“They opened fire on our youths and elders. Those that were later arrested had gunshot injuries. We didn’t shoot at the policemen. We have been having issues with Iguoshodin and they are saying we are under them.”

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