52 AAU Ekpoma Students Remanded Over Protest Against Rising Kidnappings in Edo State

Security concerns deepens in Edo State following the arrest and detention of over 52 Ambrose Alli University students who protested against the increasing kidnappings across the region.

The students were brought before the court on Monday and subsequently remanded in prison, a development that has drawn strong reactions from students, parents, and civil society groups.

The protest, which reportedly took place around the Ekpoma axis, was organised by students who said they were alarmed by repeated reports of abductions along major roads and within communities surrounding the university town. According to witnesses, the demonstrators demanded improved security measures and increased police presence to protect students and residents from criminal activities.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the protest began peacefully but later drew the attention of security operatives, who moved in to disperse the gathering. During the operation, dozens of students were arrested and taken to a nearby police facility for questioning. Authorities later confirmed that more than 52 students were in custody in connection with the demonstration.

Court Appearance and Remand

The arrested students were brought before a magistrate court in Edo State earlier today, where they were formally charged. Although details of the charges have not been fully disclosed, sources familiar with the proceedings said they include allegations related to unlawful assembly and conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace.

Following the court session, the magistrate ordered that the students be remanded in prison custody pending further hearings. The case was subsequently adjourned to a later date, with legal representatives expected to file bail applications on behalf of the students.

The development has generated strong reactions within the Ambrose Alli University community. Student leaders have described the arrests and remand as excessive, arguing that the protest was aimed at drawing attention to genuine security concerns affecting students’ safety. Some students say fear of kidnapping has become a daily reality, especially for those who commute from neighbouring towns or travel along isolated routes.

Parents of some of the affected students have also expressed distress, calling on the Edo State Government and relevant authorities to intervene. Several parents said their children were exercising their right to peaceful protest and should not be treated as criminals for demanding protection.

Human rights advocates have weighed in on the matter, urging law enforcement agencies to handle student protests with restraint. According to them, protests against insecurity reflect growing public anxiety and should prompt dialogue rather than punitive measures. They also called for the swift review of the students’ case to prevent prolonged detention.

Meanwhile, security agencies in Edo State have defended their actions, stating that maintaining public order remains a priority. A police source said the protest disrupted movement and posed a potential security risk, insisting that the arrests were carried out in line with the law.

The Edo State Government has not yet issued an official statement on the incident, but sources within the administration say discussions are ongoing to address the security concerns raised by the students while ensuring adherence to due process.

The situation has continued to trend on social media, with hashtags related to AAU Ekpoma students arrested and Edo kidnappings gaining traction. Many Nigerians online are debating the balance between public safety, freedom of expression, and the handling of protests in the country.

As the legal process unfolds, attention remains on the fate of the remanded students and whether the protests will lead to concrete steps to improve security in Edo State, particularly around tertiary institutions and major travel routes.