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BENIN CITY, Edo State — Edo Civil Society Organisations (EDOCSO), a coalition of civil rights groups in Edo State, has raised concerns over alleged abuse of power by public officials and security agencies, the declining state of primary healthcare facilities, and the need to protect citizens from possible misuse of the state's anti-cultism law.
The concerns were raised during the network's monthly meeting held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at its state secretariat in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
The meeting, which commenced at 10:22 a.m., was presided over by the Coordinator-General of the network, Leftist Omobude Agho, and featured the recitation of the national anthem, solidarity chants, and deliberations on governance, social justice, accountability, transparency, and human rights.
Addressing members, Agho expressed disappointment with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he described as the unbearable hardship facing Nigerians. He also condemned alleged abuses of power by security agencies, public office holders, and some Okaighele in Edo South, whose activities and pursuit of personal interests, he said, had become a source of concern.
The EDOCSO Coordinator-General further criticised what he described as the growing compromise of the judiciary, alleging that the institution was increasingly being used as a tool by the executive, thereby undermining access to justice and public confidence in the legal system.
On healthcare, Agho expressed concern over what he described as poor government policies and the non-functionality of many primary healthcare facilities across Edo State, warning that the situation posed a threat to the health and well-being of residents.
He also called for urgent safeguards in the implementation of Edo State's repealed anti-cultism law, warning that security agencies must not use the legislation to intimidate, blackmail, or victimise innocent citizens.
According to him, security agencies must desist from such alleged practices, adding that EDOCSO was monitoring developments and would continue to speak out against violations of citizens' rights.
To reinforce his position on good governance and the protection of fundamental rights, Agho referenced Chapter Two, Section 17 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, which outlines the social objectives and fundamental principles guiding state policy.
He highlighted the constitutional provisions on equality before the law, respect for human dignity, humane governance, the prevention of exploitation, and the need to safeguard the independence and impartiality of the judiciary.
He also drew attention to the constitutional objectives relating to adequate medical and health facilities, workers' welfare, equal opportunities, protection of vulnerable groups, and public assistance for citizens in need.
In a related development, Agho encouraged members to explore traditional knowledge passed down by older generations and to learn about traditional healing practices. During the meeting, members displayed different herbs and discussed their uses, while essential health checks were also conducted.
The Coordinator-General urged members to treat their health as a valuable asset and remain conscious of their personal well-being.
The meeting also featured the reading of the minutes of the previous meeting by the network's Secretary-General, Leftist God'spower Okumbor. The minutes were subsequently adopted by members who were present at the previous meeting.
Other matters discussed included good governance, transparency, accountability, social justice, and the protection of human rights.
The network reiterated that its monthly general assembly remains open to members of the public seeking greater awareness of their rights and civic responsibilities. The meeting concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, after which a motion for adjournment was moved and seconded by members.
EDOCSO describes itself as a human rights network within the Left Movement of Nigeria, anchored on three fundamental pillars: promoting good governance, social justice, and human rights.
The statement was signed by Leftist Aimuae-Osa Igbinomwanhia, Public Relations Officer of Edo Civil Society Organisations.
A luta continua!
Contact Information:
Edo Civil Society Organisations (EDOCSO)
The Masses House, 6B Obakhavbaye Street, adjacent to Spirit & Life Bible Church, off Oba Market Road/Isekhere Street, Benin City, Edo State.
Website: www.edocso.org
Email: info@edocso.org
X (Twitter): @alutaedocso
Facebook: Edo Civil Society Organisations
Telephone: 08133733554, 07047637552, 08071448219.
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