Fifty-two students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, have been released from custody following a weekend of unrest in the town. The Edo State government confirmed the development on Thursday, marking a significant de-escalation after protests against insecurity turned violent.
Release Follows High-Level Stakeholder Engagement
The students, alongside other individuals, had been remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre by a Benin High Court. They faced charges including malicious damage and armed robbery stemming from events last weekend. Patrick Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, announced the release in an official statement.
The initial protest was organized by students to decry the rising insecurity in Ekpoma. However, the situation deteriorated when hoodlums allegedly hijacked the demonstration. The subsequent violence saw attacks on traders, burning of tyres, and the blocking of major roads. Videos of the chaos spread rapidly on social media, drawing concern from across Nigeria.
Governor Vows to Revive AAU, Addresses N41 Billion Debt
Governor Okpebholo expressed profound distress over the incident. "I was highly in pain when I saw what was happening in my place," he stated during a meeting with the freed students and other stakeholders at the Government House in Benin.
The governor immediately connected the unrest to the deep-seated challenges facing the state-owned university. He revealed a shocking financial disparity from the past administration, noting that while the entire university community received ₦41 million, a single consultant was paid ₦59 million.
Governor Okpebholo disclosed that the outstanding salary and wage arrears owed to AAU staff now stand at approximately ₦41 billion. He assured that his administration has already begun implementing measures to gradually clear this massive debt, as part of a broader plan to reposition the institution.
Caution Against Violence and Commitment to Security
While advocating for dialogue, the governor sternly warned students against allowing themselves to be used by criminal elements. "Somebody said he is a student, and he protests. What are you protesting for? Don’t allow yourself to be used. Read your books so that you can be like us," he advised.
He condemned the looting and destruction of property that occurred, labeling such acts as counterproductive. Okpebholo also addressed the general security fears in Ekpoma, stating that investigations point to locals being involved in many criminal activities. He gave firm assurance that criminals would not operate with impunity in Edo State.
"The same way you are afraid of your life, is the same way I am afraid of my life. Kidnappers do not know the status of anybody, and so it’s a common problem we all have," the governor said, emphasizing shared vulnerability.
The state's Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, praised the governor's approach of choosing dialogue over force. Other top officials present, including Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa and the Chief of Staff Gani Audu, also commended the administration's swift intervention to restore peace and focus on educational development.
