The Edo Civil Society Coalition for Human Rights (EDOCSCHUR) has condemned in strong terms the violent invasion of the home of renowned activist, Comrade Kelly Osunbor, by suspected local thugs in the Amagba area of Oredo Local Government, Edo State.
According to Chronicles Reporters, the disturbing incident occurred on Monday, August 4, 2025. It was alleged that the attack was triggered by Osunbor’s refusal to comply with the demands of certain individuals claiming to be community enforcers, who insisted he must pay a so-called “development levy” for carrying out renovation work on his private security post.
In a statement released by EDOCSCHUR and signed by its Secretary General, Comrade Aghatise Raphael, the attackers were identified as remnants of the disbanded Community Development Associations (CDAs)—groups previously known for extorting money through illegal levies and sparking land-related conflicts.
The group explained that Osunbor had rightly rejected the extortion, noting that the renovation project was strictly personal and had nothing to do with any communal development initiative.
“By standing firm on his constitutional rights, Comrade Osunbor became a target of a violent reprisal. The hoodlums stormed his residence, destroyed property, and left him psychologically threatened,” the statement revealed.
EDOCSCHUR decried the assault as a reflection of a growing trend in Edo State, where acts of intimidation and extortion are often disguised as community development efforts.
“This attack constitutes a direct violation of the Nigerian Constitution,” the coalition said, referencing Section 43 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which upholds the right of every citizen to own property anywhere in the country without interference.
The group added that Osunbor legally purchased the property in Amagba and was targeted precisely because of his vocal opposition to corrupt and oppressive practices often perpetuated by elements of the now-banned CDA groups.
In response to the incident, EDOCSCHUR outlined three major demands:
1. Immediate Arrest and Prosecution of the Offenders:
The coalition called on the Edo State Police Command to swiftly arrest and bring to justice all individuals involved in the violent attack, describing the act as “domestic terrorism.”
2. Crackdown on Illegal Levies:
They urged the state government to clamp down on any form of community-based extortion, stressing that no group should be allowed to operate above the law under the guise of development.
3. Protection of Human Rights Advocates:
The coalition emphasized the need for adequate security for Osunbor and others who could be targeted for resisting extortion and defending constitutional rights.
While denouncing the attack, EDOCSCHUR reaffirmed its commitment to defending human rights and standing firm against any form of intimidation.
“We will not rest until justice prevails. We refuse to be cowed or silenced. Our mission remains clear—protecting the rights and liberties of all Nigerians,” the statement concluded.
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