Alltimepost.com Sincerity of Purpose
BY MIKE OSAROGIAGBON
Edo State Police Command said it has launched an investigation into the alleged brutalization of Hon. Okai Akhani by persons suspected to be members of a local vigilante group in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of the state.
A video clip of the incident, which has gone viral on social media drawing public outrage and condemnation over the alleged use of excessive force, reportedly occurred on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
A statement issued last Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Joel Yamu, said the state Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, has ordered a thorough investigation to uncover the facts, identify those involved, and ensure justice is served.
“The Edo State Police Command is aware of a disturbing incident involving the alleged brutalisation of Hon. Okai Akhani by individuals identified as members of a local vigilante group in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area.
“The Command condemns in strong terms any form of unlawful assault, cruel treatment, or abuse of authority by individuals or groups operating under any guise.
“The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc has ordered a thorough investigation into the matter to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident, identify those responsible, and ensure they are brought to justice in accordance with the law”, the statement read in part.
While reaffirming the Command’s support for community policing and the role of vigilante groups in enhancing local security, the police emphasized that such efforts must be lawful and respectful of human rights.
CSP Moses Joel Yamu however urged members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding while assuring that updates on the investigation would be provided as it progresses.
Meanwhile, a human rights group under the umbrella of Concerned Citizens of Edo has formally petitioned the Edo State police Commissioner demanding justice.
In the petition co-signed by its Convener, Marxist Kola Edokpayi, and Secretary, Comrade Aghatise Raphael, the group accused the Commander of Auchi Area Command, ACP Laurence Adjihu, of unprofessional conduct in the handling of the matter.
The group further alleged that the perpetrators of the attack are operatives under the Okpella Vigilante Sector Commanders, identified as Agbor and Ibrahim Giwa.
A copy of the petition obtained by Alltimepost.com details the group’s concerns and calls for a thorough investigation into the conduct of the Area Commander and the vigilante members involved.
