The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a stern warning to the Nigeria Police Force, demanding the immediate and unconditional release of 52 students from Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were remanded in prison following a protest against rising kidnappings in the area.
The students, part of a larger group of 52 suspects, were arraigned on January 12, 2026, at the Edo State High Court in Benin City on charges including malicious damage and armed robbery. Justice William Aziegbemi, citing lack of jurisdiction, remanded them to the Ubiaja Correctional Centre for 14 days pending further investigation, adjourning the case to February 26, 2026. Relatives wept openly as the suspects were transported away in a prison van.
The protest erupted on January 10, 2026, when residents and AAU students took to the streets in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, to decry escalating insecurity, including frequent abductions and killings. Demonstrators initially chanted against kidnappings and urged government action to protect lives and property.
However, the demonstration was reportedly hijacked by hoodlums, leading to road blockages with burning tyres, looting of shops, attacks on traders at a livestock market, and vandalism of the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II.
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo condemned the violent escalation, while the Edo State Police Command spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, confirmed that one person was shot during the unrest—allegedly by a soldier—and the matter was referred to military authorities for investigation.
Police conducted midnight raids on student hostels around 3 a.m. on January 12, arresting many individuals, including some who claimed they were asleep and uninvolved in the protest or violence.
In a strongly worded statement on January 13, 2026, NANS National Public Relations Officer Comrade Adeyemi Ajasa described the detentions as "ridiculous, unacceptable, and deeply disturbing." He emphasised that "peaceful protest is not a crime, and demanding safety should never be met with repression."
Ajasa further warned, "NANS stands in total solidarity with the affected students and their families. We will not hesitate to mobilise and take all lawful steps necessary should these students not be released immediately and unconditionally." He urged the Edo State Government, AAU management, and police to guarantee the detainees' safety, physical and mental well-being.
