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From Tony Osauzo, Benin
Edo State Police Command and leaders of Ogbeson Community in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State have engaged in game of blames following attack that led to several policemen hospitalised and some community members sustaining gunshot injuries.
It was learnt that the attack took place last Saturday when members of Ogbeson Community gathered at the Oguedion (Elders Council’s hall) to celebrate.
Confirming the incident, spokesman of the Edo Police Command, Eno Ikoedem, said some policemen were in the community over a petition when youths of Ogbeson opened fire on the police team.
She explained that the policemen were asked to investigate lingering communal clashes in the area when they were attacked.
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“Some officers were detailed to investigate the communal crisis. They went to invite leaders of the community who were in the town hall and they didn’t care to listen to the policemen. The policemen tried to state their mission but the youths did not listen. They were able to arrest seven of them and recover some arms”, Ikoedem said.
Elders and youths of Ogbeson community have however denied attacking policemen, saying that the policemen were led by vigilantes and members of the Iguoshodin, a neighbouring community they had been battling over autonomous status.
A member of the community, Best Ugbosisi, said he escaped being shot because he left the Oguedion moments before the attack.
“I got a call that policemen, vigilantes and members of Iguoshodin community invaded our Oguedion where we were celebrating.
“They opened fire on our youths and elders. Those that were later arrested had gunshot injuries. We didn’t shoot at the policemen. We have been having issues with Iguoshodin and they are saying we are under them,” he said.
