Eight Suspects Detained in Murder of Deaf Site Engineer in Benin

The Edo Police have detained eight suspects in connection with the murder of deaf site engineer Efe Ogbeide, linked to a community leadership crisis in Obazagbon, Benin. The prime suspect is Joshua Edo. The incident has prompted civil protests advocating for justice and better protections for individuals with disabilities.

The Edo Police Command has detained eight individuals in connection with the murder of Efe Ogbeide, a deaf site engineer, amid a leadership dispute in Obazagbon Community, Benin. The Police Spokesman, CSP Moses Yamu, confirmed this on Thursday, identifying Joshua Edo, the community youth chairman, as the primary suspect among those arrested.

The additional suspects include Obayuwana Happy, Uhunwangho Everest, Chidera Umeh, Simon Benjamin, Odion Adagbonyin, Kennedy Ohro, and Osayi Adagbonyin. They were apprehended by the Iyekogba Division’s Operation Rescue and Anti-Kidnapping Unit at various locations.

Yamu indicated that the violence arose from conflicts regarding the leadership roles of Chairman and traditional leader, Okiaghele, leading to multiple fatalities and extensive property damage. He reported that Commissioner of Police Betty Isokpan denounced the violence and pledged that all responsible individuals would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

In response to Ogbeide’s murder, civil society groups expressed their outrage, with organizations such as the Network for the Advancement of People with Visible Disabilities and Edo State Civil Society Organisations organizing a protest. Melody Omosha, Executive Director of NAPVID, highlighted the vulnerability of Ogbeide, suggesting that his deafness may have prevented him from receiving warnings prior to the attack. The groups are advocating for justice and improved protections for individuals with disabilities in Edo State.

In conclusion, the tragic death of Efe Ogbeide has prompted significant public outcry and swift police action, resulting in the detention of eight suspects linked to the incident amid ongoing community violence. Law enforcement authorities are committed to enforcing justice, while civil society advocates emphasize the need for enhanced safety measures for persons with disabilities. The situation reflects deeper issues within community leadership and underscores the necessity of protecting vulnerable populations.

Original Source: punchng.com