In a significant and hopeful development for students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, several youths who were arrested and remanded following unrest in the community have regained their freedom, bringing relief to families and the university community.
Background: Protest, Violence and Arrests
The situation began when residents and some university community members in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State staged a demonstration over rising insecurity — including kidnappings and violent crime — during the weekend. The protest, which initially sought to highlight deepening security concerns in the area, escalated into violence after suspected hoodlums allegedly hijacked the gathering, damaged property, attacked traders, and blocked roads with burning tyres.
Following the outbreak of violence, security agents arrested a group of people, including students of AAU. A Benin High Court remanded 52 persons — many of whom were identified as university youths — to the Ubiaja Correctional Centre on charges ranging from malicious damage to armed robbery tied to the disturbances.
Release and Government Engagement
On Thursday, the Edo State Government confirmed the release of the detained students and other detainees, following concerted dialogue and engagement with stakeholders. The release was officially communicated in a statement by Patrick Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo.
Governor Okpebholo met with the released students at the Government House in Benin, where he reiterated his administration’s commitment to dialogue, reforms, and educational development in the state, particularly at Ambrose Alli University.
The governor described the violence with deep concern, noting that his administration had been determined to revive and reposition the university, citing increased funding and administrative support in recent months. He also urged students to stay focused on their studies and avoid involvement in criminality.
Calls for Peaceful Engagement and Caution Against Exploitation
Speaking at the engagement, the governor cautioned students against being “used” by criminal elements and emphasised that criminal acts should not be conflated with genuine civic concerns. He reiterated that insecurity is a collective challenge that requires cooperation, not confrontation.
Officials present at the meeting — including the Deputy Governor, Chief of Staff, Minister of Youth, and senior government aides — lauded the peaceful resolution and supported the restoration of normalcy in the region.
Resumption of Academic Activities
Following the release, authorities have indicated that normalcy is returning to the Ekpoma community, paving the way for a resumption of academic activities at AAU. The Commissioner for Education in Edo State had previously been engaged in securing the release of bona fide students and ensuring a safe environment for learning as calm returned to the area.
Reactions from Civil Society and Opposition Voices
Politicians, civil society figures, and advocacy groups had criticised the earlier arrests, urging authorities to respect citizens’ rights to peaceful protest. Some national and local opposition figures emphasised that protests against security failures are constitutionally protected and should not be criminalised, calling for constructive dialogue between authorities and students.
