The Edo State Government has secured the release of students from Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were remanded in custody following a violent anti-kidnapping protest last weekend.
The students were among 52 individuals arrested after the demonstration in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, turned destructive. They had been held at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre since a Federal High Court ordered their remand on charges including malicious damage and armed robbery.
Governor Meets Released Students
Shortly after their release on Thursday, the students met with Governor Monday Okpebholo at the Government House in Benin City. During the meeting, the governor expressed regret over how the initially peaceful protest escalated into violence.
He urged the students to remain law-abiding and cautioned them against being manipulated by criminals hiding behind legitimate civic action.
Minister of Youth Development Intervenes
The release followed the intervention of the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, who traveled to Edo State specifically to facilitate the students' freedom. In a post on X, Olawande commended Governor Okpebholo for his decisive and humane approach to resolving the situation.
“I was in Edo State to secure the release of 52 students who were detained following protests in their community, an intervention that underscores our commitment to responsive leadership and calm engagement,” Olawande stated.
He also praised the state Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, for his constructive role throughout the process.
Background of the Protest
The protest began last Saturday as residents and students marched against rising cases of kidnapping in Ekpoma and the recent killing of a young man. However, the demonstration was hijacked by hoodlums, leading to attacks on traders, the slaughter of livestock at a local market, and an assault on the palace of the traditional ruler, the Onojie of Ekpoma.
The state government had initially described the event as a “well-organised riot” allegedly sponsored from abroad, but has now opted for dialogue and the release of the detained students, signaling a shift toward reconciliation and engagement.
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