The Student Union Government (SUG) of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, has issued a strong rebuttal against claims linking its students to recent demonstrations that rocked parts of Edo State. The union leadership has categorically stated that neither the university's student body nor the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) organized the protests.
Union President Rejects Student Link to Unrest
Speaking on Monday, January 13, 2026, the AAU SUG President, Osadebamen Ehizogie Michael, described attempts to associate the student community with the protests as both misleading and unfortunate. He emphasized that the demonstrations were carried out by groups entirely unconnected to the university.
"Contrary to popular claims, the protest was not organised under the aegis of the student union government or the National Association of Nigerian Students," Ehizogie stated. "It is quite pitiable that some persons are trying to link what transpired to the student community. We are here to officially debunk that students did not organise any protest."
The SUG president used the platform to make a direct appeal to the Edo State government and security agencies. He urged them to ensure the prompt and unconditional release of any AAU students who were arrested during the incident, maintaining that they played no part in planning or executing the protests.
University Administration Corroborates Student Stance
The student union's position received backing from the university's administration. Professor Andrew Eromonsel, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administration at AAU, confirmed that their internal investigations aligned with the SUG's claims.
Professor Eromonsel revealed that the university had engaged with students prior to the incident and received clear assurances that they were not involved in any protest plans. He noted that efforts to foster dialogue with stakeholders from the host communities were unsuccessful, as the invited parties did not attend.
"That protest was organised by some groups of people who are not our students," the professor asserted. "Our students are law-abiding, and the union remains committed to peaceful coexistence with host communities."
He expressed gratitude for the state government's assurances regarding the release of detained students and voiced hope for a swift resolution to the matter.
Governor Points Finger at Overseas Sponsorship
This development follows earlier comments from Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, who characterized the Ekpoma protest as a well-organised riot sponsored from overseas. The governor alleged that a Nigerian based in Russia, along with other international actors, was behind the unrest.
Governor Okpebholo suggested that opposition elements planned the protest to create chaos and tarnish the image of the Edo State Government. This allegation sets up a contrasting narrative to the student union's firm denial of any involvement by the academic community.
The situation highlights the ongoing tensions and the critical need for clear communication between student bodies, educational institutions, and state authorities to prevent the wrongful attribution of blame and to protect the rights of innocent students.
