Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has claimed that a Nigerian based in Russia sponsored the protest in Ekpoma, Esan west LGA.
This was made known in a statement on Tuesday by Patrick Ebojele, chief press secretary to the governor.
According to him, the protest was a “well-organised riot”, funded by a Nigerian living in Russia and others based overseas.
Recall that on Saturday, residents of Ekpoma and neighbouring communities took to the streets to protest the spate of kidnapping in the area.
The protest saw a number of proprieties destroyed, which necessitated the deployment of security operatives and subsequent arrest of some protesters..
Mr. Okpebolo noted that the arrests were based on “clear evidence”, including video footage of violence and destruction, adding that those in custody were rioters and not peaceful protesters.
