By Victor Omoalu
BENIN CITY – Mr. Okunbor Abiodun, a resident of Benin City, has petitioned the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 5, over the alleged assault and disappearance of his son, Abiodun Victor, following his participation in the recent #EndSARS protests.
According to Mr. Abiodun’s petition, on October 20th, his son joined the nationwide demonstrations calling for an end to police brutality and systemic reform. However, the protests in Edo State took a violent turn, leading to the destruction of property and the theft of arms and ammunition from police stations.
Mr. Abiodun claims that in the aftermath of the unrest, armed men believed to be members of a dangerous cult or police officers stormed his house on the night of October 24th. They demanded to see his son, threatening violence and setting the house ablaze when their demands were not met.
Mr. Abiodun further alleges that he was shot in the right leg during the altercation, resulting in the subsequent amputation of his limb. Two other individuals from the neighborhood, Chidi Okeke and Osazeme Efe, were also reportedly brutalized and taken away by the security operatives to an undisclosed location.
Abiodun Victor, fearing for his life, has gone into hiding.
Mr. Abiodun’s petition urges the authorities to investigate the incident, identify and arrest the perpetrators, and locate the whereabouts of his son and the other missing individuals. He calls for justice to be served and for the protection of innocent citizens from such acts of violence.
The incident has sparked outrage among local residents and human rights activists, who demand an immediate investigation and accountability for the actions of the security forces.
This case highlights the ongoing tension and precarious situation in the aftermath of the #EndSARS protests, where concerns remain regarding the use of excessive force and potential human rights abuses.
