Edo guber: Group absolves Police officer over alleged illegal arrests

A group, operating under the aegis of Concerned Youths of Uromi, on Sunday, absolved one Patrick Ejededawe, a Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), who hails from the area, of complicity in the recent arrest of some people in Edo Central Senatorial District.

The arrested individuals were allegedly linked to violence and possession of firearms in the build-up to next Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State,

The group in a press conference said those arrested were linked to the offences they were being accused of, citing a video that went viral a few weeks ago where the vigilante arrested a young man with guns and he named some politicians as those who gave him the guns.

Addressing journalists in Benin, on Sunday evening, the leader of the group, Joe Ugege, said that DCP Ejededawe should be left out of the developments and be allowed to face his work as a serving police officer.

“Several months ago, a young man was apprehended by vigilantes for possessing two pistols and other weapons. During questioning, he implicated several individuals, leading to police invitations and subsequent arrests of those mentioned.

“Regrettably, false allegations have surfaced, linking DCP Patrick Ejededawe (Citadel) to these arrests.

“We want to make it clear that DCP Ejededawe has no involvement or knowledge of these arrests. He has consistently affirmed that he is not connected to the individuals or events involved.

“We have carefully reviewed the video of the young man’s confession to the vigilantes, which provides crucial context about the situation. This video should be considered in the ongoing investigation.

“We urge the Nigeria Police Force to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to ensure justice is served fairly.

“We also call for the prompt and unconditional release of any innocent individuals wrongfully implicated and who have no connection to firearms.” The group demanded.

The group added that Ejededawe had been a dedicated asset to the community, “who has worked tirelessly to ensure Uromi is safe and assisting those in need.

“It is important to recognise his genuine contributions and not allow false accusations to tarnish his reputation,” Concerned Youths of Uromi pleaded.

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