The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has called for the immediate and unconditional release of 52 students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, detained over their alleged role in last Friday’s anti-kidnapping protest.
In a statement on Monday, PDP Publicity Secretary Dan Osa-Ogbegie described the continued detention as oppressive, unlawful, and an abuse of power, emphasizing that the protest was initially peaceful and constitutionally protected before being allegedly hijacked by hoodlums.
The party accused Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration of punishing peaceful demonstrators while failing to confront the real perpetrators of violence, warning that such actions undermine democratic expression in the state.
Osa-Ogbegie said the government’s handling of insecurity in Ekpoma and surrounding communities reflects incompetence and authoritarianism, stating, “Only a government afraid of accountability would criminalise civic protest.”
The PDP reiterated its opposition to kidnapping and killings, calling for the dismantling of criminal networks operating freely across Ekpoma and nearby areas. The party stressed that residents’ protests are a legitimate response to rising insecurity, including the recent killing of a youth.
The protest, which initially involved highway blockages, turned violent after miscreants allegedly hijacked it. Traders and the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II, were attacked. Edo State Police confirmed that one person was shot by a soldier, with the case now under military investigation.