Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the arrest of 52 students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) in Ekpoma, Edo State, following a protest against insecurity that turned violent on Saturday. The demonstration, initially peaceful, was reportedly hijacked by suspected hoodlums, leading to the blockage of major roads and attacks on traders. The palace of Zaiki …
Atiku Abubakar Condemns Arrest of Edo Protesters, Urges Release of Students
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the arrest of 52 students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) in Ekpoma, Edo State, following a protest against insecurity that turned violent on Saturday.
The demonstration, initially peaceful, was reportedly hijacked by suspected hoodlums, leading to the blockage of major roads and attacks on traders. The palace of Zaiki Anthony Abumere II, the Onojie of Ekpoma, was also targeted during the unrest.
In a post on his verified X account on Tuesday, Abubakar called for “the immediate and unconditional release of all those unjustifiably detained for asserting their legitimate rights to protest.”
He described the arrests as a sign of growing intolerance under the Tinubu administration and criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC) for prioritising the arrest of students over combating terrorism and banditry.
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“The level of intolerance and high-handedness of the Bola Tinubu administration is concerning,” Atiku wrote. “It is unacceptable that the authorities’ response to students’ protest against insecurity in the Ekpoma area of Edo State is to arrest and detain dozens of students.
“The right to protest is not only enshrined in the Constitution but has also been validated by the courts. If the energy with which innocent students and citizens are arrested for raising concerns about insecurity were deployed to fighting terrorism and banditry, our communities would be safer,” he added.
On Monday, the Edo State High Court remanded the 52 protesters over alleged malicious damage and armed robbery during the protest. Presiding Judge William Aziegbemi said the court lacked jurisdiction and directed counsel for the defendants to file bail applications at the Ubiaja High Court.
The case was adjourned to February 26, and the suspects were remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
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