By Muhammad Mamman
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has ordered the immediate release of students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were arrested by police during protests that erupted in the town earlier this week.
The directive followed a meeting between the governor and the President of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the university, amid growing concern over the detention of the students.
In a statement issued after the meeting, Okpebholo said the arrests were made during efforts by security agencies to restore order in Ekpoma but stressed that the students should be freed without delay.
The governor also alleged that the protest was orchestrated by a group identified as the Comrade Association, which he described as being made up largely of former students. According to him, the group has a history of exploiting unrest to cause disruption and violence.
He subsequently directed the Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr Paddy Iyamu, to work with relevant authorities to ensure the release of the affected students.
The detained students are among 52 people arrested in connection with the unrest and later remanded at a correctional facility on Monday.
Tensions had risen in Ekpoma following the protest, prompting police intervention. The state government says it remains committed to maintaining peace while safeguarding the rights and welfare of students and residents.
