Newsworth | Danjuma Amodu | January 13, 2026
Following violent protests that rocked Ekpoma last weekend and the subsequent arrest, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate release of all genuine Ambrose Alli University (AAU) students arrested during the unrest.
In a meeting with AAU’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Andrew Eromonsele and Student Union President Comrade Osadebamen Ehizogie Michael, the governor, reassured the university community that his administration stands firmly with students and will not tolerate the misuse of peaceful protest by criminal elements.
Governor Okpebholo confirmed Tuesday that any AAU student wrongfully detained during the crackdown on Saturday’s protest will be identified and freed without delay. “I have met with the SUG president of AAU Ekpoma,” Okpebholo said.
“We had a very lengthy discussion, and as I have consistently said, this was not a students’ protest. These are people who are no longer students but are just hanging around the school, causing trouble and extorting students.”
The protest, sparked by rising kidnappings in Ekpoma, quickly escalated into violence; shops were looted, the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma was vandalized, and a protester, Osagie Abraham, was reportedly shot by military personnel. Fifty-two individuals were arrested and remanded by a High Court in Edo.
But following intelligence confirming that the unrest was orchestrated by non-students described by the governor as members of a rogue “Ambrose Alli Comrade Community,” authorities moved swiftly to separate innocent students from perpetrators.
“I have directed that any genuine student who may have been arrested in the process of restoring order will be promptly identified and released,” Okpebholo stated.
He added that no arrests took place within the university campus itself and that the state government has nothing against AAU students.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has instructed Edo Police Commissioner, Monday Agbonika, to screen detainees and confirm genuine students for release, a directive already being implemented.
Okpebholo also condemned the destruction of markets and property as “condemnable,” warning that anyone, regardless of status or political affiliation, found sponsoring or using hoodlums to destabilize communities will face justice.
“I don’t care whether you are a politician or not. If you are using people to destroy our land and economy, we will go after you.”
The governor vowed to dismantle criminal networks across Edo State and ensure peace returns to Ekpoma.
Yesterday, Okpebholo visited Ekpoma to access damage from a fire that destroyed shops owned by hardworking traders. He expressed deep sympathy for the affected traders and announced immediate reconstruction plans.
“Work will begin within the week.” Beyond rebuilding, the government will support traders to resume business without further hardship.”
During his visit, the governor also stopped by the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, His Royal Majesty Zaiki Anthony Ehizojie Abumere II. The Onojie condemned the violence, noting that many protesters appeared to be under the influence of drugs and warning that such actions could spiral into deeper chaos.
His palace suffered significant damage during the invasion. Doors, windows, vehicles, and personal property were destroyed, yet he urged restraint and appealed for peace.
The Governor further affirmed that the duty of the government is to protect lives and properties.
“Our resolve remains firm to protect lives, property, and livelihoods across Edo State. Edo will not be a safe haven for criminals.”
