What Happened In Benin City Today?
by J Nandhini
Updated Feb 16, 2023
What happened in Benin City Today
On Wednesday, a spontaneous protest broke out in Benin City, with some reports indicating that three people were feared dead due to the unrest. The demonstration was in response to the Naira redesign policy that had been implemented by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Protesters blocked several roads, including Ring Road, Akpakpava Road, Ramat Park, Five Junction by Urubi, Ugbowo Road, Ekehuna Road, and adjoining streets, causing heavy traffic gridlock. In addition to setting fires on the streets, they also attacked commercial banks in the area.
The military was called in to intervene and managed to bring the situation under control. However, despite the presence of security personnel, protesters regrouped and became more violent, which reportedly resulted in three people allegedly being killed by security operatives.
One protester, Godwin Osemwingie, expressed his frustration with the new policy, saying he had attempted to purchase items with old Naira notes but was informed that they were no longer acceptable in the country. He claimed that even banks and bus drivers were rejecting the old notes, leaving people unable to buy or sell goods. Another respondent, Osasere Enadaghe, shared his disappointment after being told that both the old and new Naira notes could coexist but later found out that the old notes were not being accepted. Precious Oruche had attempted to deposit old Naira notes at the CBN along Akpakpava Road but was driven out by security agents attached to the bank.
The government has been called upon to address the situation and make a fast U-turn before it spirals out of control. The Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, declined to comment on the number of deaths resulting from the protest, stating that it was too early to discuss the matter.
