Human rights advocates under the banner of Concerned Edo Citizens convened a high-stakes press conference to demand justice for Comrade Okhai Okhani and urged the Governor of Edo State, Okpebholo, to end vigilante terror in Edo State and check escalating insecurity in the region.
Comrade Okhani, President of the Edo North Unity Forum, was reportedly abducted and brutally tortured on July 26 by over fifty vigilante operatives allegedly led by individuals identified as Agbor and Ibrahim Giwa, Sector Commander of the Vigilante Group in Okpella. Witnesses and the victim described the incident as an attempted extrajudicial killing, which was thwarted only due to swift public outrage.
The attackers claimed their actions were carried out under “an order from above,” a statement that has fueled speculation about state-backed complicity. Disturbingly, when handed over to the Auchi Area Commander, ACP Lawrence Adjihu, no medical care was provided—instead, Comrade Okhani was unlawfully detained in critical condition for over four hours.
Despite formal petitions to law enforcement, no arrests have been made. The accused individuals reportedly continue to roam freely, issuing threats and boasting of political protection.
Organizers of the press conference highlighted the violation of key legal provisions:
- Section 33(1):
- Right to Life
- Section 34(1)(a): Protection from Torture
- Section 35(1): Right to Personal Liberty
- Section 36(5): Presumption of Innocence
- Anti-Torture Act, 2017
Concerned Edo Citizens presented a list of urgent demands: Arrest and prosecution of all perpetrators, Disciplinary action against ACP Adjihu, and an Independent investigation into the “order from above.”
Additionally, Holistic support for the victim—encompassing medical, psychological, and legal aspects— and Comprehensive reforms in vigilante operations statewide.
The group issued a passionate plea to Governor Monday Okpebholo to uphold his commitment to peace and human rights. They described the incident as a threat to public order and the integrity of his administration.
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” — Martin Luther King Jr.
The press conference concluded with a vow of continued advocacy, urging civil society, security agencies, the media, and the international community to intervene swiftly.
