The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the continued detention of 52 students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were remanded following a protest over rising cases of kidnapping and insecurity in Edo State.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its National Public Relations Officer, Adeyemi Ajasa, the association described the students’ detention as “ridiculous, unacceptable, and deeply disturbing,” arguing that peaceful protest is a constitutional right and should not attract intimidation or punishment.
“Peaceful protest is not a crime, and demanding safety should never be met with repression,” the statement said.
NANS called on the Edo State Government, the management of Ambrose Alli University and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to guarantee the safety and wellbeing of the detained students, insisting that their physical and mental welfare must be protected at all times.
The student body demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the students, warning that any attempt to delay or justify their continued detention would be regarded as a deliberate act of oppression against Nigerian students.
It also criticised authorities for focusing on the arrest and prosecution of students rather than addressing the insecurity that prompted the protest.
“It is alarming that instead of tackling kidnapping and insecurity affecting campuses and host communities, authorities have chosen to criminalise students for speaking out,” NANS said, describing the approach as unjust and capable of escalating tension.
The association reaffirmed its solidarity with the affected students and their families, pledging to mobilise and pursue all lawful options should the students remain in custody.
The 52 students were remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre by a Benin High Court on charges including malicious damage and armed robbery.
Justice William Aziegbemi, who presided over the matter on Monday, ruled that the court lacked jurisdiction and directed defence counsel to file bail applications at the Ubiaja High Court. The case was adjourned to February 26, 2026.
Some of the detained students told reporters that they were arrested at about 3 am while asleep in their hostels, insisting they did not take part in the protest or in the subsequent violence.
The demonstration was later hijacked by hoodlums, who reportedly attacked traders, set tyres ablaze and vandalised the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II.
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