A fresh kidnapping in Ekpoma, headquarters of Esan West LGA, Edo State, has been captured on CCTV, coming just a day after residents protested against the surge in abductions in the town.

A viral video shows the victim driving into his compound, unaware of the lurking danger. Moments after parking, armed men emerged from a nearby bush, seized him, and whisked him away to an unknown location.

The incident followed a mass protest on Saturday, January 10, 2026, where residents demanded urgent action from security agencies and the Edo State Government over worsening insecurity. Frustrated protesters also pulled down political billboards ahead of the 2027 general elections, accusing politicians of prioritizing campaigns over citizens’ safety.

During the demonstration, 32-year-old Osagie Abraham was reportedly shot by a soldier. Edo State Police confirmed that Abraham survived and is receiving medical care.

The Edo State Police Command described the protest as initially peaceful but said it was hijacked by individuals who engaged in vandalism, looting, and other unlawful acts. Police Commissioner Monday Agbonika personally visited Ekpoma and led reinforcements from Benin to restore order.

Earlier reports highlighted a viral video in which the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) warned protesters that a “Hausa police officer” who would not tolerate dissent would replace him, fueling concerns over heavy-handed security responses.

The latest abduction underscores persistent insecurity in Ekpoma and the urgent need for effective measures to protect residents from kidnappers.