There was tension, on Thursday, in Uzanu community when Sani Ikani, the younger brother of the deposed Oliola of Uzanu, Benjamin Ikani, violently disrupted a peaceful rally held in support of the Edo State government’s anti-cultism law.
According to witnesses, the incident occurred when an ITV news crew arrived in the community to cover the rally, which had drawn widespread support for Governor Monday Okpebholo’s war against cult-related violence.
Sani Ikani reportedly confronted the journalists, demanding that they should stop recording and leave the area immediately.
When his attempts to stop the coverage were unsuccessful, Ikani escalated the situation by snatching a recording gadget from the ITV crew and smashing it on the ground.
He then forcefully ordered the journalists to vacate the community.
ITV’s correspondent, Macdonald Irunokhai, who was part of the crew, has since filed a formal complaint at the Uzanu Police Station.
In the report, he urged the police to investigate the incident thoroughly and take appropriate legal action against Sani Ikani for deliberately obstructing a lawful and peaceful rally.
Observers and members of the community have condemned Ikani’s actions, describing them as a deliberate attempt to silence media coverage and intimidate supporters of the government’s anti-cultism efforts.
Many believe the incident reflects a pattern of hostility and aggression associated with both Sani Ikani and his elder brother, Benjamin Ikani, who was recently “removed” from his position as the traditional ruler of Uzanu.
Although reportedly removed, yet Benjamin Ikani still has in his custody the staff of office that confers some significant authority on him.
Security agencies are now being urged to subject both Benjamin and Sani to close watch to prevent further threats to peace and order within the community.
The rally, organized by youth and civil society groups, continued despite the disruption, with many participants reaffirming their support for the anti-cultism initiatives being spearheaded by Governor Okpebholo.
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