Fifty-two students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were held at Ubiaja Correctional Centre following last weekend’s protest, have been released, Edo State authorities confirmed on Thursday.
The students had been detained on charges including malicious damage and armed robbery after a demonstration against rising insecurity in Ekpoma escalated into violence. Hoodlums reportedly hijacked the protest, attacking traders, setting tyres ablaze, and blocking roads, incidents that quickly drew attention on social media.
At a government-hosted meeting in Benin, Governor Monday Okpebholo expressed regret over the unrest and reaffirmed his commitment to reviving AAU. Okpebholo also cautioned students against being manipulated by criminal elements. “Protests are one thing, but don’t let anyone use you. Focus on your studies and build your future”, he said.
The governor acknowledged broader security challenges in Ekpoma, condemning property destruction and looting during the protest. He assured residents that offenders would face justice, stressing that insecurity affects everyone equally.
“Kidnappers do not distinguish between statuses – we are all at risk, and we must work together to maintain safety”, he said.
Highlighting the university’s financial struggles under the previous administration, Okpebholo revealed that outstanding salaries and arrears for staff currently total about ₦41 billion.
Chief Press Secretary – Patrick Ebojele, Commissioner for Education – Paddy Iyamu, Deputy Governor – Dennis Idahosa, Chief of Staff – Gani Audu, the Minister of Youth and the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Youth Engagement all commended the government’s decision to pursue dialogue over force, praising the efforts to restore calm and maintain focus on education.
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