Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has indeed called for the release of the students arrested in connection with the protest against kidnapping in Ekpoma. The Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, was dispatched to oversee the process and ensure the release of genuine AAU students. According to Dr. Iyamu, the governor has directed that any bona fide students be released and walk home free.
The protest, which turned violent, was reportedly instigated by a group known as the Comrade Association, comprising former students who allegedly co-opted current students to cause mayhem. The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) have demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the detained students, citing their right to peaceful assembly and expression.
