By Peter Oyedele, Abuja

ABUJA – The Akoko-Edo Forum (AEF) has condemned the disruption of a peaceful protest staged by its members in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, calling on both the Federal and Edo State Governments to urgently address what it described as longstanding neglect of the area.

In a statement jointly signed by the forum’s leaders, Mary Opii and Edith Aiyede, the group said the protest was organised to draw attention to key challenges facing the locality, including concerns over political representation, insecurity, infrastructure deficits, and the condition of major roads.

The forum said the demonstration was cut short after another group converged at the same venue, leading to tension in the area. It noted that security agencies on ground advised protesters to disperse to prevent a breakdown of law and order.

The protesters later reconvened at Ugbogbo in Igarra, where they addressed a press conference, reiterating their concerns and calling for immediate action by relevant authorities.

Speaking at the briefing, AEF leaders, alongside representatives from the three zones of the local government area, urged government at all levels to prioritise the needs of the people, particularly in addressing insecurity and infrastructure challenges.

The group highlighted the condition of the Auchi–Igarra–Ibillo road as a major concern for residents and road users, calling for urgent intervention to improve safety and accessibility.

AEF also commended the Divisional Police Officer in Igarra and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Akoko-Edo for maintaining calm during the incident.

The forum further expressed concern over what it described as years of unaddressed appeals to successive administrations, stressing the need for sustained government attention to the area’s development.

During the protest, participants carried placards with inscriptions such as “Bad Roads Equal Bad Governance,” “Enough of Kidnappings,” and “We Cannot Suffer in Silence Anymore,” while demanding improved infrastructure, enhanced security, equitable distribution of projects, and greater political accountability.

They also called for the creation of additional local government areas, rehabilitation of critical roads, and the establishment of key educational institutions, including the Edo Polytechnic, Igarra campus, and a School of Geology and Mining.

Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful advocacy, the forum urged residents of Akoko-Edo to remain united and continue to seek development through lawful means.