The Akoko‑Edo Forum (AEF) has raised alarm over what it described as decades of neglect, poor infrastructure, and worsening insecurity in Akoko‑Edo Local Government Area, following the disruption of a peaceful protest by its members.

The group said the protest, organised to highlight concerns over poor representation, bad roads, and rising insecurity, was violently disrupted by alleged thugs led by the Acting Secretary of the council, Mr. Topa Okomayin.

According to the Forum, despite prior notification to security agencies, the protest was cut short after participants were allegedly threatened, harassed, and physically assaulted.

To prevent escalation, protesters dispersed on the advice of security operatives and later reconvened for a press briefing in Ugbogbo, Igarra.

At the briefing, AEF leaders—alongside representatives from the three zones of the LGA—reiterated their grievances and called on the Federal Government, the Edo State Government, and the National Assembly to urgently intervene in what they described as deteriorating living conditions in the area.

The Forum condemned the alleged actions of the miscreants, accusing them of attempting to suppress a lawful and peaceful demonstration.

It, however, commended officers of the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services for their professionalism in preventing a breakdown of law and order.

Speakers at the event highlighted years of unaddressed petitions to successive administrations, particularly on insecurity and infrastructural collapse. They lamented the state of the Auchi–Igarra–Ibillo road, describing it as a hotspot for kidnapping and other criminal activities due to its poor condition.

The protesters carried placards with messages such as “Bad Roads Equal Bad Governance,” “Enough of Kidnappings,” and “We Cannot Suffer in Silence Anymore,” reflecting widespread frustration over governance and development in the area.

They also demanded fair distribution of state projects, improved representation, youth development opportunities, and the creation of additional local government areas to enhance administration and growth.

AEF further called on anti-corruption agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, to investigate issues surrounding constituency projects in the area.

Reaffirming its commitment to non-violent advocacy, the Forum urged indigenes of Akoko-Edo to remain united, resist political manipulation, and continue to demand accountability.