Peace has been restored in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, following days of tension triggered by insecurity and protests that disrupted commercial and social activities in the town and arrest of citizens and students of Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma.
The unrest, which occurred earlier in the week, was sparked by growing concerns among residents over alleged kidnapping, security challenges and other unresolved grievances. Protests by youths led to the destruction of public property, including a banner that had become a visible symbol of the disturbance, while shops, markets, and offices were forced to shut down as fear gripped the community.
However, a visit to Ekpoma on Wednesday revealed a return to normalcy. The damaged banner has since been replaced, signaling a restoration of order and renewed confidence among residents.
A correspondent monitoring the situation reported that markets, banks, and business centres have fully reopened, with traders and residents going about their daily activities without hindrance. Vehicular movement has also returned to normal across major roads in the town.
Security operatives remain strategically deployed in key locations to prevent a recurrence of violence and to reassure residents of their safety. Community leaders and stakeholders have also continued engagements aimed at addressing the issues that led to the protests.
Residents expressed relief over the return of peace, calling on authorities to sustain security measures and address underlying concerns to prevent future unrest.
