The Edo State Police Command on Monday announced it has arrested three bouncers involved in the Children’s Day chaos at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin.
According to a press statement issued by the command’s PPRO, Eno Ikoedem, another operative was arrested on Monday for employing tear gas, which resulted in the death of a state resident.
She further stated that Rebecca Hassan claimed to be the supplier/seller of the pepper spray used in the incident on Children’s Day.
The statement read, “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.
“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.
“It would be recalled that on 25th May, 2026, a police officer attached to the command unlawfully discharged tear gas at Ogida, Benin City, an incident which unfortunately led to the loss of a life.
“The officer involved was immediately arrested and subjected to disciplinary and criminal procedures in line with extant laws.”
The statement continued, “Similarly, on 27th May, 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.
“Following diligent investigation into the incident, the Command has arrested three bouncers connected to the unlawful act, namely Ifeanyi John Paul, aged 36 years; Ola Ibikunle, aged 46 years; and Onoha Chukwuoji, aged 33 years.
“Further investigation also led to the arrest of one Mrs. Rebecca Hassan, alleged to be the supplier/seller of the pepper spray used during the incident.”
She stated that the command regarded unlawful use of such gadgets as assault, or conduct capable of causing grave pain and, in certain cases, death. Consequently, unlawful possession of these items with the intent to commit a felony and other related offenses is viewed as criminal under the law.
The Edo State Police Command issued a warning to all persons, private security workers, bouncers, vigilante groups, and unauthorized organizations in possession of pepper spray, tear gas, or other prohibited security equipment to immediately cease such unlawful possession and use.
The command stated that anyone found in possession of such prohibited or unauthorized police/security accoutrements, including sellers, distributors, and suppliers, would be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.
Meanwhile, Monday Agbonika, the Commissioner of Police, reminded people that the Command was still committed to preserving citizens’ rights and would not allow any conduct that jeopardized public peace and safety in the state.
