The Edo State Government has appealed to residents of Ekpoma and surrounding communities to remain calm and law-abiding following protests that disrupted commercial activities in the area, even as authorities imposed restrictions on the movement of commercial motorcycles and tricycles to strengthen security.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, the government acknowledged the constitutional right of citizens to express grievances but warned that protests that block roads and disrupt movement could undermine security operations and expose residents to further danger.

Afegbua stressed that security matters require “calm, coordination and constructive engagement,” noting that uncoordinated actions could be exploited by criminal elements and distract security agencies from ongoing operations.

According to him, Governor Monday Okpebholo has remained responsive to genuine concerns about safety since assuming office, but believes that lasting security solutions are best achieved through intelligence sharing, community collaboration and sustained engagement with security agencies rather than unstructured protests that threaten public order.

He said the governor’s security architecture is focused on proactive measures, including the strengthening of the Edo Security Corps, neighbourhood watch initiatives and continuous engagement with community leaders, traditional institutions and neighbouring states.

“These platforms are available for residents to channel security-related concerns, provide useful information and contribute meaningfully to keeping their communities safe,” Afegbua said.

He reiterated that the state government remains open to dialogue and assured residents of Ekpoma and the wider Edo community that security strategies are being continuously reviewed and strengthened in line with the governor’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

Meanwhile, the Acting Chairman of Esan West Local Government Council, Albert Blessing Ebhodaghe, has announced a daily restriction on the movement of commercial and private motorcycles (Okada) and tricycles (Keke) within the local government area.

In a separate statement, Ebhodaghe said the directive, which takes immediate effect, mandates all Okada and Keke operators to cease operations by 7:00 pm daily as part of efforts to enhance public order and curb criminal activities.

He disclosed that security agencies in the area have been directed to strictly enforce the restriction, warning that violators will face sanctions in accordance with existing laws.

Describing the move as a proactive response to emerging security concerns, the chairman said the restriction is aimed at supporting law enforcement, especially during nighttime hours when criminal activities are more prevalent.

Ebhodaghe called on residents and transport operators to cooperate with the policy, assuring them that while the administration recognises the importance of Okada and Keke services to local transportation, public safety remains its highest priority.

The Esan West Local Government Council reaffirmed its commitment to engaging stakeholders and monitoring the impact of the restriction to ensure it contributes effectively to peace, stability and improved security across communities.