The Edo State Government has commenced urgent steps to secure the release of bona fide students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre following a violent protest over rising cases of kidnapping in the community.
No fewer than 52 persons were arrested on Monday after a protest, initially sparked by security concerns, degenerated into chaos. Some of those arrested were alleged to be AAU students, a claim that has since generated public outcry and widespread debate on social media.
In response, Governor Monday Okpebholo on Tuesday directed the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, to intervene and facilitate the release of genuine students wrongfully detained.
Speaking to journalists at the correctional facility, Dr. Iyamu assured that all verified AAU students would be released once due processes were concluded.
“There is a lot of misinformation going on, especially on social media,” Iyamu said. “The university is not in session, and there was no authorisation from the Students’ Union Government for any protest. The students were not involved.”
The commissioner alleged that the violence was orchestrated by a group known as the Comrade Association, which he described as a network of former students notorious for exploiting tense situations to cause unrest.
“These are ex-students who latch onto any problem to cause mayhem,” he said. “They even invaded the residence of a traditional ruler and carted away food items. That behaviour does not represent Edo students.”
Iyamu reiterated the governor’s position that no innocent student would be punished for crimes they did not commit. “Governor Monday Okpebholo has made it clear that any bona fide student will be released and allowed to go home freely,” he added.
Meanwhile, the President of the AAU Students’ Union Government, Osadebamwen Ehizojie, praised the state government for its swift intervention. He emphasized that AAU students neither organized nor endorsed the protest, noting that it was hijacked by hoodlums with ulterior motives.
“The students’ union did not initiate the protest,” Ehizojie said. “We appreciate the governor’s commitment to justice and the protection of students’ rights.”
As investigations continue, residents of Ekpoma have renewed calls for stronger security measures to curb kidnapping in the area, while stakeholders urge calm to prevent further escalation.