Edo Civil Society Groups Protest Killing of Disabled Man in Obazagbon

The brutal killing of a physically disabled man in the Obazagbon neighborhood, Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, has sparked protests from the Network for the Advancement of People with Visible Disability (NAPVD) and the Edo State Civil Society Organizations (EDOSCO).

During a demonstration in Benin City, the groups condemned the murder of Efe Ogbeide, a man with physical disabilities.

According to Barrister Omasah Melody, Executive Director of NAPVD, Ogbeide, who was deaf, could not hear the alarm raised by the attackers, leaving him vulnerable while others escaped.

He called for swift justice, urging the government to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

“We are in pain. We are deeply touched because Mrs. Betty has lost a dear husband, and his children have been made fatherless,” Melody stated.

He further emphasized that Ogbeide’s only ‘crime’ was his determination to provide for his family despite his disability. He was killed while striving to earn a living and avoid being a burden to society.

Melody also raised concerns about frequent communal clashes over land disputes, stating that these conflicts disproportionately affect people with disabilities.

“When there are crises in the community, the physically challenged suffer more. They are the worst affected, and this must stop,” he added, calling on security forces to take decisive action.

In response, Moses Yamu, Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, confirmed that three individuals had been arrested in connection with the violence in Obazagbon.

He assured the public that investigations are ongoing.