Edo Govt Faults Pre-dawn Arrest Of 90-year-old ADC Candidate’s Father, Iduoriyekemwen

by MIKE OSAROGIAGBON

Edo State Government has faulted the pre-dawn arrest of 90-year-old Pa Joseph Iduoriyekemwen, father of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) senatorial candidate for Edo South, Hon. Mathew Iduoriyekemwen.

Pa Iduoriyekemwen was reportedly taken from his residence in Amagba, Benin City, by armed policemen over allegations bordering on conspiracy, forcible entry, gun-running, cultism and promoting communal crises.

Edo Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, described the manner of the arrest as unacceptable, saying the nonagenarian should have been invited to respond to the allegations.

“Arresting a 90-year-old and fragile man at 4am in such a manner is a no-no for the state government,” Prince Afegbua said.

He said Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration was committed to due process and the rule of law, urging security agencies to adopt appropriate methods when handling petitions involving elderly citizens.

Prince Afegbua, however, cautioned politicians against politicising the incident or using it to blackmail the government.

Meanwhile, the Edo State Police spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the arrest saying Pa Iduoriyekemwen had been released after interrogation.

ASP Ikoedem said a petition against Pa Iduoriyekemwen was first received on August 25, 2026, following which he was invited to the station, made a statement and was released.

The police spokesperson also confirmed that he was subsequently arrested by detectives over the same matter, adding that he had again been released after interrogation.

She also disclosed that two other suspects had been arrested in connection with the allegations, while investigation continues.

The police command urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid relying on unverified information.