The Edo State Police Command has arrested three private bouncers and a suspected supplier over the unlawful use of pepper spray during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.
The incident, which occurred on May 27, reportedly caused panic among children and other attendees after pepper spray was discharged within the stadium premises.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikioedem, the Command identified the arrested bouncers as Ifeanyi John Paul, 36; Ola Ibikunle, 46; and Onoha Chukwuoji, 33.
Police also arrested Mrs. Rebecca Hassan, who is alleged to have supplied the pepper spray used during the incident.
According to the statement, the arrests followed a thorough investigation into the Children’s Day disruption, which left several children and participants affected by the chemical substance.
The Command expressed concern over what it described as the growing proliferation, unauthorised possession and misuse of restricted security equipment, including pepper spray, tear-gas canisters and other force-related accoutrements by private individuals, bouncers, vigilante groups and unauthorised security outfits across the state.
Police warned that the use of such devices without proper training and legal authorisation poses serious risks to public safety and could result in grievous bodily harm or even death.
The Command recalled a similar incident on May 25, 2025, when a police officer unlawfully discharged tear gas in the Ogida area of Benin City, leading to the death of a resident. The officer was subsequently arrested and subjected to disciplinary and criminal proceedings.
Edo Police stressed that unlawful possession of pepper spray, tear gas and other restricted security equipment with criminal intent constitutes an offence under the law.
The Command consequently issued a stern warning to private security personnel, bouncers, vigilante groups and other unauthorised organisations to immediately desist from possessing or using such prohibited items.
It further declared that anyone found in possession of unauthorised police or security accoutrements, including sellers, distributors and suppliers, would be arrested and prosecuted.
The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that it would not tolerate any action capable of undermining public peace and safety in the state.
