Tension gripped Etebite Street, off Forestry Road, in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, following a violent confrontation between traders and local government taskforce officials during a street-clearing enforcement exercise.
The incident reportedly began as a disagreement over the removal of traders occupying the roadway and pedestrian walkways but later escalated into chaos as the enforcement exercise turned violent.
According to reports by Independent Television (ITV), at least two persons sustained injuries during the fracas, while tear gas was allegedly deployed, triggering panic and forcing residents, traders, and passersby to flee the area.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of confusion as traders hurriedly gathered their wares amid the commotion. Vehicular and pedestrian movement was temporarily disrupted as fear spread across the street.
The incident has since sparked mixed reactions from members of the public. While some residents defended the enforcement exercise, insisting that traders must vacate roads and walkways meant for motorists and pedestrians, others questioned the use of force and firearms by taskforce operatives during the operation.
Several citizens called on the Edo State Government to review the conduct of enforcement officials, urging authorities to address alleged extortion of traders and to ensure that enforcement exercises are carried out in a civil and humane manner to prevent injuries and loss of life.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the Edo State Government or the taskforce regarding the incident.
