BENIN CITY — The Edo State Government has confirmed the release of 90-year-old Pa Joseph Iduoriyekemwen by the Nigeria Police, clarifying that he was arrested following a petition by some members of Amagba Community and not abducted by unknown gunmen as initially reported.
The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, expressing relief over the elderly man’s release.
Afegbua said although the initial report indicated that Pa Iduoriyekemwen was abducted at about 4 a.m., further clarification established that he had been arrested by the police over a petition from members of the community.
He, however, faulted the circumstances surrounding the arrest, describing the early-morning arrest of a 90-year-old and physically fragile man as inappropriate.
According to him, the elderly man could have been invited to respond to the issues raised in the petition rather than being arrested in such a manner.
The commissioner said Governor Monday Okpebholo was committed to the rule of law and due process in handling issues affecting residents of the state.
He lamented that minor disputes in Edo were often politicised and used to blackmail the government, urging residents to exercise restraint and promote responsible public discourse.
Afegbua added that the state government believed in treating elderly citizens with respect and dignity as part of its approach to governance.
He also called on security agencies to adopt appropriate methods in handling petitions and matters requiring investigation and clarification.
On land-related disputes, the commissioner stressed that ownership and acquisition must comply with procedures established by the Edo State Government, in line with the ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening land administration processes and documentation.
He warned that anyone found abusing the land administration process, regardless of social status or position, would face the full consequences of the law.
The government reiterated its commitment to due process, respect for citizens and the enforcement of established laws in the state.
