Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has condemned the attack on the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, His Royal Highness Zaiki Anthony Ehizojie Abumere II, by anti-kidnapping protesters on Saturday, January 10, 2026.

The protesters reportedly blocked major highways and caused widespread property damage, including items belonging to the traditional ruler and his family. Governor Okpebholo visited the palace to personally assess the destruction.

During the visit, he was shown vandalized property within the palace compound, including vehicles, canopies, chairs, cartons of Indomie noodles owned by the Onojie’s wife, and damaged doors and windows.

Describing the invasion and looting as criminal and unacceptable, the governor emphasized that protests must never be used as an excuse for lawlessness.

“I want to thank Your Highness for the love you have shown to our people and me over the years. Kidnapping is a serious problem across Nigeria, and that is why the President has taken bold steps, including withdrawing police from VIP duties, to strengthen the fight against insecurity,” Okpebholo said.

He highlighted ongoing strategic, technology-driven security operations across Edo State, noting that previous operations successfully rescued nine kidnapped persons in Etsako West and apprehended their captors.

The governor warned that those who hijacked the protest to vandalize the palace and loot property would face justice. “This is unacceptable. We will go after them the same way we are going after kidnappers. Nobody should test our patience. I will not allow bad things to happen in this land,” he asserted.

Onojie Zaiki Anthony Ehizojie Abumere II described the incident as unfortunate, claiming many of the protesters were under the influence of illicit drugs. He said attempts to address them were initially blocked, and the attackers returned later, unleashing violence while he was attending a security meeting.

Governor Okpebholo assured the traditional ruler and residents that decisive security operations are imminent, promising that peace, law, and order would be fully restored in Ekpoma and Edo Central.