Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has taken decisive action by dismissing his Special Adviser on Youth Mobilisation, Aigbogun Collins. This move comes in the wake of violent unrest that rocked the state following anti-kidnapping demonstrations.
New Appointment and Police Probe
The governor swiftly appointed Christopher Udobor Iyase as the new Special Adviser on Youth Mobilisation, filling the vacancy left by Aigbogun's removal. The announcement was made official in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, on Friday, January 16, 2026, in Benin City.
Ikhilor described the newly appointed Iyase as a dedicated youth mobiliser with a profound passion for the welfare of young people in Edo State. Meanwhile, Aigbogun Collins is currently held in police custody. Sources indicate his arrest followed a direct order from Governor Okpebholo for a thorough investigation into the recent disturbances.
Background: The Ekpoma Unrest
Aigbogun's dismissal is directly linked to the violent anti-kidnapping protests that erupted in Ekpoma, located in the Esan West Local Government Area. The protests, which occurred days before the aide's removal, led to significant unrest and prompted a strong response from the state government.
Governor Okpebholo has publicly stated his belief that the Ekpoma protest was not a spontaneous act of citizen dissent. He claimed that security agencies identified masterminds who allegedly coordinated the demonstrations with the aim of destabilising the Edo State Government. The governor asserted that the protests were sponsored from overseas by opposition elements, and that most arrests made were connected to acts of violence rather than peaceful protest.
Government's Response and Moving Forward
In related developments, the Edo State Government has provided an update on the 38 students arrested during the weekend protest in Ekpoma. Officials have confirmed that the students will be released soon. The Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, stated that academic activities are set to resume on Monday following the restoration of normalcy in the area.
Governor Okpebholo has reiterated the administration's unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security across the region. The dismissal of the youth aide and the subsequent appointment are viewed as part of broader efforts to address the root causes of the unrest and ensure stability.
