Police Arrest Officer in Edo Over Alleged Tear‑Gas Killing

The Edo State Police Command announced that it has detained an officer accused of using tear gas to kill an unidentified individual in Benin City.

ASP Eno Ikoedem, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, made the statement on Monday, June 1, 2026, in a briefing released to the media in Benin City.

Ikoedem recalled that on May 25, 2026, a police officer attached to the Command unlawfully discharged tear gas at Ogida, Benin City, an act that resulted in a fatality.

The officer was immediately arrested and is now facing disciplinary and criminal proceedings in accordance with existing laws.

The Command also reported that three bouncers and a pepper‑spray supplier were arrested in connection with the May 27, 2026 stampede that occurred at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium during the Children’s Day celebration.

The arrested individuals are listed as Ifeanyi John Paul, 36; Ola Ibikunle, 46; Onoha Chukwuoji, 33; and Mrs. Rebecca Hassan.

Further investigation led to the arrest of Mrs. Hassan, who is alleged to be the supplier or seller of the pepper spray used during the incident.

“Similarly, on May 27, 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,” Ikoedem said.

“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,” she added.

“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,” she continued.

Ikoedem stated that the Command views the unauthorised use of such devices as assault or acts capable of causing grievous harm, and in certain circumstances, death.

She explained that unlawful possession of these items with the intent to commit felony and related offences is a criminal offence under the law, and the Command has issued a stern warning to 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 usage.

The Command’s spokesperson warned that any person found in possession of prohibited or unauthorised police/security accoutrements, including sellers, distributors, and suppliers, will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.