by Mohammed Bello Doka
Security operatives on Monday barred journalists from entering the courtroom of the during the arraignment of 52 persons arrested over a recent protest against killings and kidnappings in , Edo State.
The protesters were brought before the Criminal Court II amid tight security, with reporters told that only legal practitioners would be allowed access to the proceedings. The restriction sparked concerns among media practitioners and civil society observers over transparency and press freedom.
During the brief sitting, the presiding judge declined jurisdiction on the matter and ordered that the 52 defendants be remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre pending further legal steps. The case was subsequently adjourned, with defence lawyers directed to file appropriate bail applications before the proper court.
Defence counsel expressed shock at the charges reportedly filed against the defendants, which include serious offences such as malicious damage and armed robbery. Lawyers argued that the accusations did not reflect the nature of the demonstration, insisting the protest was a peaceful outcry by residents over worsening insecurity in the area.
Outside the courtroom, emotional scenes played out as relatives of the detainees protested the arrests. Some parents claimed their children were picked up from their homes or on routine errands and were not part of the protest. They appealed to authorities for fairness and speedy justice.
The protest in Ekpoma, which took place over the weekend, was triggered by a spike in kidnappings and killings, with residents and students, including those from , taking to the streets to demand improved security. The demonstration disrupted commercial activities and drew wide attention on social media.
Reacting earlier, the called for calm, urging residents to channel grievances through lawful means while assuring the public that security agencies were intensifying efforts to address criminal activities in Ekpoma and surrounding communities.
The exclusion of journalists from the court session has continued to generate debate, with media advocates calling for greater openness in judicial proceedings, especially in cases of significant public interest.