In response to a demonstration 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.
In relation to the disturbance that took place at a rally last week, 52 people were detained and arrested, including the students. Concerns about frequent kidnappings and the recent death of a local youth served as the impetus for the demonstration.
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 set free.
Speaking to reporters at the Ubiaja Correctional Center, Dr. Iyamu gave the public the assurance that the lawful students will be released right away when 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 organization frequently takes advantage of any chance to incite chaos.
“There is a lot of false information, especially on social media,” he went on. Without the appropriate authorization 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 commit such crimes. Regarding any protest, there was no formal correspondence 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 act that did not represent the ideals of the student body.
According to him, Governor Okpebholo has stated unequivocally that every lawful AAU student 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 Student 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 soon be released,” 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 the roles played by all stakeholders 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 stated, “We are grateful to His Excellency for ensuring that our fellow students are released.” It is crucial to remember that AAU students did not start the protest; instead, thugs took control of it.