Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan Condemns Arrest, Detention Of 52 Edo Varsity Students

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central senatorial district of Kogi State, has condemned the arrest and alleged unlawful detention of 52 students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) Ekpoma, describing the action as a dangerous attempt to suppress youth voices and democratic expression.

In a statement issued to journalists on Tuesday in Abuja, the Kogi Central Senator called for the immediate and unconditional release of the detained students, stressing that protest and civic engagement should never be criminalised in a democratic society.

“Dialogue, not detention, is the pathway to peace and progress,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said. “Our youths must not be criminalised for speaking up and protesting about issues that affect their environment, welfare, and future.”

The lawmaker criticised the handling of the situation by authorities in Edo State, urging the government to refocus its efforts on addressing the growing insecurity confronting residents, including kidnappings and other related crimes.

“The government of Edo State must concentrate on tackling kidnappings and other forms of insecurity, rather than suppressing discerning and courageous voices,” she stated.

Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasised that peaceful protest is a constitutionally guaranteed right and an essential tool for accountability, particularly for young people whose lives and futures are directly affected by governance decisions.

According to her, silencing students through arrests only deepens public mistrust and widens the gap between the government and the governed, noting that constructive engagement and sincere dialogue remain the most responsible approaches.

She concluded by reaffirming her solidarity with the detained students and their families, adding that her intervention is consistent with her longstanding commitment to justice, democratic values, and youth empowerment.

LEADERSHIP reports that the 52 students were among many suspects arrested and arraigned before a court in Benin City on Monday over their alleged involvement in the protest against insecurity which turned violent in Ekpoma, Esan West local government area of Edo State on Saturday.