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Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi today strongly condemned the arrest and remand of 52 students from Ambrose Alli University in Ekpoma, Edo State. The students staged a peaceful protest against escalating kidnappings and banditry in their community.
Obi described the government's response as utterly unacceptable and a direct assault on citizens' fundamental rights to demand security and protection.
The incident unfolded when students, frustrated by ongoing threats from armed criminals, organized a demonstration to urge authorities to address the insecurity plaguing Edo State.
Instead of heeding their calls, police arrested the protesters during a nighttime raid on their hostels. A court subsequently remanded them in custody, sparking widespread outrage across Nigeria.
In a statement posted on social media, Obi expressed his dismay: "I have just been made aware of the alarming arrest and remand of 52 students in Ekpoma, Edo State, who bravely called for an end to the terror of kidnappers and bandits plaguing their community. Arresting young people for demanding safety is absolutely intolerable."
He further emphasized the irony of bandits operating freely while peaceful protesters face imprisonment, urging the Edo State government to redirect efforts toward combating real threats rather than suppressing voices of the youth.
Obi called for the immediate and unconditional release of the detained students. "This action not only stifles democratic expression but also erodes public trust in our institutions," he added. "Leaders must prioritize the safety of citizens and listen to their legitimate grievances. Suppressing protests sets a dangerous precedent for our nation's future."
The former Anambra State governor highlighted the broader implications of such incidents amid Nigeria's widespread insecurity challenges. He appealed to all levels of government to foster an environment where young people can advocate for change without fear of reprisal.
Recent updates indicate that Edo State authorities have begun moves to release 38 of the arrested students, following public pressure and condemnations from rights groups. Obi welcomed this development but stressed the need for full accountability and preventive measures against future injustices.