AAU
By Oyinkansola Aremu
The students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) who were remanded in connection with an anti-kidnapping protest in Ekpoma have regained their freedom. The Edo State Government, led by Governor Monday Okpebholo, initiated efforts to secure the release of the bona fide students, with the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, facilitating the process.
The protest, which turned violent, was allegedly orchestrated by a group known as the Comrade Association, comprising former students who hijacked the demonstration. The students were among 52 individuals arrested and remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre. Governor Okpebholo has assured that any genuine students will be released without delay.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) had condemned the arrest and detention, describing it as unjust and a violation of constitutional rights. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan also demanded the immediate release of the students, emphasizing that peaceful protest is a constitutional right .
The Edo State Government has clarified that the protest was not organized by AAU students, but rather by individuals seeking to foment trouble. The government has approved the resumption of academic activities at the university, with students expected to return to school on Monday.
The release of the students has been welcomed by parents, student leaders, and rights advocates. The Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Student Engagement, Sunday Asefon, attributed the development to timely interventions by stakeholders, including Governor Okpebholo and the Minister of Education.
The incident has drawn attention to the need for dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts. As the situation returns to normal, the focus shifts to addressing the underlying issues of insecurity and kidnapping in Ekpoma.
