Edo Government Condemns Attack on Hausa Traders in Ekpoma

The Edo State Government has condemned the attack on Hausa traders at a livestock market in Ekpoma, where angry youths reportedly slaughtered goats and chased traders away. The incident followed protests over the killing of a local youth by suspected kidnappers.

Videos circulating online showed youths attacking animals at the market while traders fled for safety, raising fears of ethnic tension and possible reprisal attacks in other parts of the state.

The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, described the incident as unfortunate and appealed for calm among residents. He warned against taking the law into one’s hands.

Afegbua said collective punishment and mob actions could worsen insecurity and threaten peaceful coexistence among communities.

The government assured residents that security agencies were working to restore order and prevent further violence.