•Police
The Edo State Police Command today said it has arrested three bouncers involved in the Children’s Day chaos at the Sam Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin.
In a press statement by the Command’s PPRO, Eno Ikoedem, today, another operative was also arrested for using tear gas that led to the death of a citizen of the state.
She also said that one Rebecca Hassan, alleged to be the supplier/seller of the pepper spray used during the incident on Children’s Day, reports The PUNCH.
The statement read, “The Edo State Police Command has expressed grave concern over the increasing proliferation, unauthorised possession, and unlawful use of restricted security accoutrements such as pepper spray, tear-gas canisters, and other force-related equipment by private individuals, bouncers, vigilantes, and unauthorised security outfits within the State.
“It frowns on the use of such items without proper training, or regard for public safety, thereby endangering innocent lives and creating avoidable public disorder.
“It would be recalled that on 25th May, 2026, a Police Officer attached to the Command unlawfully discharged tear-gas at Ogida, Benin City, an incident which unfortunately led to the loss of a life.
“The officer involved was immediately arrested and subjected to disciplinary and criminal procedures in line with extant laws.”
The statement continued, “Similarly, on 27th May, 2026, during the Children’s Day Celebration held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, pepper spray was unlawfully discharged within the stadium premises by private bouncers, causing panic and affecting several children and other attendees at the event.
“Following diligent investigation into the incident, the Command has arrested three bouncers connected to the unlawful act, namely Ifeanyi John Paul, aged 36 years, Ola Ibikunle, aged 46 years, and Onoha Chukwuoji, aged 33 years.
“Further investigation also led to the arrest of one Mrs. Rebecca Hassan, alleged to be the supplier/seller of the pepper spray used during the incident.”
She said the Command viewed the unauthorized use of such devices as assault, or acts capable of causing grievous harm, and in certain circumstances, death. Consequently, unlawful possession of these items with the intent to commit a felony and other related offences is viewed as criminal under the law.
The Edo State Police Command warned all individuals, private security personnel, bouncers, vigilante groups, and unauthorised organisations in possession of pepper spray, tear gas, or related restricted security equipment to immediately desist from such unlawful possession and use.
The Command said that any person found in possession of such prohibited or unauthorised police/security accoutrements, including sellers, distributors, and suppliers, will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, reassured residents that the Command remained committed to protecting citizens’ rights and would not tolerate any act that threatens public peace and safety within the state.
