AAU Ekpoma Refutes Protest Claims, Highlights Institutional Reforms

The management of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, has debunked recent online reports alleging a protest by students over exam delays, unpaid lecturers, and inaction by the university administration.
The institution described the claims as a “false narrative” by “mischief makers” intent on undermining the university’s reputation for personal gains.

At a press briefing at the Edo NUJ Correspondents’ Office, Benin City, Otunba Mike Aladenika, principal assistant registrar /head of information and public relations, AAU, Ekpoma, said what occurred at the main gate was not a protest but rather a gathering of part-time students from the Directorate of Sciences and Humanities (DSH) who sought clarification on their academic programmes.

He said, “What happened that day was not a protest, but a gathering of part-time students who wanted to know their academic positions, but the management promptly responded to their concerns, providing further information and assurances that satisfied the students. There was no protest that warranted tension in the university, contrary to the erroneous report.”

Aladenika further noted that those behind the online publication were previously instrumental in bringing about the now-defunct Special Intervention Team (SIT) regime and may attempt to reignite tensions to destabilise the current administration. “Clearly, the intention is to tarnish our institution’s reputation,” he said.

“The current administration, led by acting vice-chancellor Professor Sunday Olowo Samuel, inherited a deeply troubled part-time programme beset with challenges, including un-cleared staff claims and delayed examinations.

“These issues were largely as a result of poor funding over the past eight years and restrictive policies imposed by the SIT. Despite these obstacles, the administration has recorded substantial achievements in revitalising the Directorate of Sciences and Humanities.”

He disclosed that the 2022/2023 first semester lectures, delayed by 11 months, commenced in March 2024 and concluded with examinations in January 2025. The second semester followed from February 26 to May 2, 2025, paving the way for the commencement of a new academic session.

Aladenkia maintained that the institution has implemented a new result release policy, highlighting interventions by the Edo State government.

“By implementing these changes, Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma demonstrates its commitment to improving academic processes and student experience.

“In addition to the faculties and departments sourcing alternative power supplies, the state government has announced plans to provide a 1.5-megawatt alternative power supply to support all sectors of our main campus.

“Additionally, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) will install a solar plant, a testament to our university’s prominence in the South-South region. Notably, Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma is the sole beneficiary of this initiative in the region,” he said.

“The Computer-Based Examinations (CBEs) for 100 Level students of the Directorate of Science and Humanities were processed and released within one week. All results for the 2023/2024 academic session are now available online.”

Aladenika also said that AAU, Ekpoma, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with a Chinese University for knowledge transfer and partnership.

“Furthermore, we’ve signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with a Chinese university, paving the way for technology transfer and exchange programmes. This partnership will undoubtedly enhance our academic and research capabilities,” he concluded.