In response to a protest against the increasing number of kidnappings in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, the Edo State Government has taken action to guarantee the release of legitimate students from Ambrose Alli University (AAU) who were detained in the Ubiaja Correctional Center.
52 people were detained and arrested in relation to the disturbance that took place during a rally last week, including the students. Concerns about regular kidnappings and the recent death of a local youth served as the impetus for the protest.
Dr. Paddy Iyamu, the Commissioner for Education, has been assigned by Governor Monday Okpebholo to supervise the release procedure and guarantee that only legitimate AAU students are released.
Speaking to reporters at the Ubiaja Correctional Center, Dr. Iyamu gave the public the assurance that the lawful students would be released as soon as all procedures were completed.
Dr. Iyamu stated, “A group called the Comrade Association, which is mostly made up of former students, started the violent protest in Ekpoma last week. This group frequently takes advantage of every chance to stir up trouble.
“There is a lot of misinformation, especially on social media,” he went on. Without the appropriate permission from the Student Union Government, a protest cannot take place. The pupils were not present, and the school is not in session. Former students are recruited by the Comrade Association to encourage such behavior. There was no formal correspondence regarding any protest with the security.
The Commissioner explained that the demonstrators had vandalized the traditional ruler’s home and stolen food supplies, including Indomie noodles, in what he called an unusual behavior that did not represent the ideals of the student body.
According to him, Governor Okpebholo has stated unequivocally that all lawful AAU students should be freed from detention and permitted to return home.
The students will be released shortly, according to Comrade Asefon Sunday, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students Engagement.
“We are happy to announce that 38 Ambrose Alli University (AAU) students who were detained in relation to the recent protest in Ekpoma will be released shortly,” he stated.
“His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State; Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa; SUG President Ambrose Ali, the workerholic Commissioner for Education in Edo State; and the steadfast efforts of the comrade community are responsible for this positive development.”
“We commend all stakeholders for their roles in ensuring a peaceful resolution of the matter and appreciate their commitment to dialogue, due process, and the welfare of students.”
The Governor’s action was praised by AAU Student Union Government (SUG) President Osadebamwen Ehizojie, who said, “We are grateful to His Excellency for ensuring that our fellow students are released.” It’s crucial to remember that AAU students did not start the protest; instead, thugs took over.
