The Edo State Government has announced that 38 students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, arrested in connection with last weekend’s protest in the area, will be released.
The Commissioner for Education, Mr. Paddy Iyamu, disclosed this on Wednesday. He said some of the students were released on Tuesday, while the remaining ones would regain their freedom on Wednesday.
“We didn’t sleep until about 1 a.m. trying to secure the release of the students, some of whom were freed yesterday. Altogether, we are releasing about 38 students,” Iyamu said.
The commissioner explained that the unrest was largely orchestrated by individuals living outside Edo State, who allegedly hijacked the protest and instigated violence, leading to the destruction of property.
Recalling a previous protest, Iyamu noted that students had earlier demonstrated peacefully on May 13, 2025, over cultism, during which they marched to Government House and were received by Governor Monday Okpebholo.
“The governor addressed them, took them into his office, and everything went smoothly. If grievances are to be expressed, it must be done in an orderly manner. Taking laws into one’s hands, stealing, and invading the palace of a traditional ruler is totally unacceptable,” he said.
Iyamu further announced that academic activities at Ambrose Alli University would resume following the restoration of peace in Ekpoma.
“A communiqué has been issued this morning. Students are to return to school on Monday as normalcy has been restored. The governor is still in the area to ensure peace is sustained, while security agencies continue to do their work,” he added.
Background to the Protest
The protest erupted last Saturday when angry youths took to the streets of Ekpoma, in Esan West Local Government Area, to demonstrate against rising cases of kidnapping and insecurity.
Videos circulating on social media showed residents protesting the spate of abductions and killings in Edo Central, while some traders, suspected to be cattle breeders, were seen fleeing a market upon sighting the protesters.
Police later confirmed that the protest was hijacked, alleging that peaceful protest rules were ignored, leading to malicious damage, looting, and vandalisation of shops. Over 50 persons were reportedly arrested.
On Monday, the Edo State High Court (Criminal Court 2) ordered the remand of some of the arrested youths at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre.
Governor’s Intervention
However, Governor Monday Okpebholo on Tuesday approved the release of those arrested over the protest.
After meeting with the Students’ Union Government (SUG) President of AAU, Ekpoma, the governor insisted that the unrest was not organised by students of the institution.
“This was not a students’ protest. These are people who are no longer students but are hanging around the school, causing trouble and extorting law-abiding students. We will put an end to that,” Okpebholo said.
The state government has reiterated its commitment to restoring and maintaining peace in Ekpoma while addressing security concerns raised by residents and students.
