Former Nigerian Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the arrest and arraignment of students from Ambrose Alli University (AAU) in Ekpoma, Edo State, following a violent protest against rising cases of kidnappings and killings in the area. The students’ demonstration, which began peacefully, turned violent, resulting in the looting of shops and vandalism of the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma.
Atiku expressed his concerns over the handling of the situation by the current administration, stating that the right to protest is constitutionally guaranteed. He emphasized that citizens, including students, have the right to express grievances over insecurity without fear of repression. The former vice-president noted that the primary duty of the government is to protect lives and property, and that security agencies should focus on tackling criminality rather than suppressing citizens who raise concerns about safety.
The protest in Ekpoma, which is the headquarters of Esan West Local Government Area, highlights the growing concern over insecurity in the region. The students’ arrest has sparked debate over the government’s response to citizen protests. Atiku argued that if the energy used to arrest innocent students was deployed to fight terrorism and banditry, communities would be safer.
The former vice-president called for the immediate release of the detained students, describing their arrest as unjustified and unconstitutional. He stressed that the right to protest is not only enshrined in the constitution but has also been validated by the courts. Atiku’s statement comes as the Nigerian government faces increasing pressure to address the rising cases of kidnappings and killings across the country.
The situation in Ekpoma is a reflection of the broader security challenges facing Nigeria, and the government’s response to the protest has raised concerns over the protection of citizens’ rights. As the authorities continue to grapple with the security situation, the release of the detained students remains a key issue. The Nigerian government must balance the need to maintain law and order with the need to protect citizens’ rights to freedom of expression and assembly.
