Porkupyne Attack: South-South Group Demands Urgent Police Probe, Warns Against Political Violence
The South-South Grassroots Mobilisation Movement (SSGMM) has condemned the reported brutal attack on Edo-born comedian and content creator, Osagie Daniel Idedia, popularly known as Porkupyne, calling on the Inspector-General of Police and the Edo State Police Command to conduct an urgent investigation and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The movement expressed concern over reports that the comedian sustained serious injuries during an attack by suspected assailants in Benin City, Edo State, and was subsequently taken to hospital for treatment.
In a press statement issued on Saturday, October 24, 2026, and signed by its Secretary, Abieyuwa Festus Odogbo, SSGMM described the incident as disturbing and extended its sympathy to Porkupyne, his family, colleagues and supporters, while wishing him a speedy recovery.
The organisation said the circumstances surrounding the reported attack required serious attention, particularly amid allegations that the comedian had openly criticised the administration of Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, and expressed opinions on governance and political accountability.
However, the movement stressed that the alleged political motive must be established through credible evidence and an impartial investigation, warning against premature conclusions about those responsible.
SSGMM maintained that no citizen should be subjected to threats, intimidation or physical violence for peacefully expressing an opinion, criticising public officials or exercising constitutionally protected rights.
It warned that if investigations establish that the attack was intended to silence the comedian because of his political views, it would represent a serious threat to freedom of expression and democratic participation.
The group also said the severity of the reported violence warranted an investigation into the possibility of an attempted assassination, while emphasising that the motive and circumstances of the incident must be determined by the appropriate authorities.
SSGMM Calls on IGP, Edo Police Command to Act
The movement called on the Inspector-General of Police, the Edo State Police Command and other relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation into the incident.
It urged the police to identify and arrest the suspected perpetrators, investigate any credible evidence of political motivation or sponsorship, and prosecute anyone found culpable in accordance with the law.
The organisation further called for appropriate protection for Porkupyne and any witnesses who might face threats or intimidation in connection with the case.
According to SSGMM, the investigation must not be abandoned once public attention fades, insisting that the authorities have a responsibility to establish the facts and ensure that justice is served.
It stressed that the credibility of the investigation would depend on the professionalism of the security agencies, the quality of the evidence gathered and the willingness of the authorities to pursue the case without fear or favour.
“Justice must be done, and it must be seen to be done,” the movement stated.
Okpebholo Urged to Demonstrate Commitment to Security
SSGMM also challenged Governor Monday Okpebholo to demonstrate his administration's commitment to security by ensuring that the relevant authorities take concrete steps to investigate the attack and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The group noted that the incident presented an opportunity for the state government and security agencies to demonstrate their capacity to respond effectively to serious acts of violence.
It, however, clarified that it was not accusing the governor or any member of his administration of ordering or sponsoring the attack, stressing that such allegations must not be made without evidence.
Nevertheless, the movement maintained that residents were entitled to demand transparency, accountability and measurable action from institutions responsible for protecting lives and maintaining law and order.
It urged the state government to cooperate fully with an impartial investigation and publicly reaffirm that violence and intimidation had no place in Edo State politics.
The group warned that failure to identify those responsible could deepen public anxiety and raise further questions about the effectiveness of efforts to combat insecurity.
It added that the appropriate response to the incident was a credible investigation based on evidence rather than political speculation or unsubstantiated accusations.
Political Criticism Must Not Attract Violence — Group
The movement reiterated that peaceful criticism of government policies and public officials was a legitimate part of democratic governance and should never be treated as justification for violence.
It argued that comedians, journalists, activists, opposition supporters and ordinary citizens must be able to express their opinions without fear of physical attacks or retaliation.
According to SSGMM, democratic institutions are strengthened when public officials respond to criticism through constructive engagement, policy explanations and lawful debate rather than intimidation.
The organisation also cautioned political supporters, associates and individuals claiming to act in the interests of any administration against resorting to threats, thuggery or physical violence against perceived critics.
It stressed that political affiliation or loyalty could not place anyone above the law, adding that disagreements over governance should be resolved through peaceful and lawful means.
The group called on Governor Okpebholo to encourage his supporters to respect the rights, safety and dignity of all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations or opinions.
SSGMM Warns Against Normalisation of Political Violence
The movement warned that Edo State could not achieve lasting peace, security and development if citizens became afraid to express their views on governance.
It maintained that the state belonged to all its residents and that no political party, administration or group of supporters had the right to intimidate others into silence.
SSGMM also urged the government to ensure that security agencies carried out their responsibilities professionally and without political interference.
At the same time, it appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist investigators while refraining from circulating unverified allegations capable of misleading the public or endangering innocent people.
Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful political participation, freedom of expression and democratic accountability, the organisation demanded a credible investigation into the attack, the identification of those responsible and their prosecution wherever the evidence supports criminal charges.
The movement reiterated its solidarity with Porkupyne and called for his full recovery, stressing that no citizen should have to choose between expressing a peaceful opinion and protecting their personal safety.
It concluded that protecting freedom of expression and ensuring accountability for acts of violence were essential to strengthening democracy and maintaining public confidence in the rule of law.
For Further Enquiries:
Organisation: South-South Grassroots Mobilisation Movement (SSGMM)
Contact Person: Abieyuwa Festus Odogbo, Secretary
Telephone: 09043187477
Email: southsouthgrassrootsmobilisati@gmail.com
