A tragic encounter at a police checkpoint in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, has led to the death of an 18-year-old boy, Chinedu Abimbor.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, when police operatives reportedly opened fire on Abimbor’s vehicle, killing him on the spot.
His younger brother, who was with him at the time, was subsequently arrested.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that Abimbor, who was driving a Mercedes-Benz, failed to stop when signalled by officers, prompting one of them to fire at the car.
His sudden death sparked widespread outrage, with youths and family members taking to the streets of Ekpoma the following day to demand justice.
Protesters marched to the palace of the traditional ruler, HRH Anthony Ehizogie Abumere II, insisting on the immediate release of the deceased’s brother.
A demonstrator, Lucky Adaba, accused the police of routinely harassing young men who own cars in the area.
Attempts to engage with the police reportedly ended in officers using tear gas and gunfire to disperse the crowd.
In response to the public outcry, the Edo State Police Command has launched a full investigation into the shooting.
The Command’s spokesperson, Moses Yamu, stated that the incident involved a joint security team and an unregistered Mercedes-Benz.
The Commissioner of Police, Betty Otimenyin, has ordered the withdrawal of three patrol teams linked to the case and assured the public that justice will be served.