AAU Alumni Association Condemns Arrest of Students, Demands Immediate Release

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Ambrose Alli University Alumni Association (Worldwide) has strongly criticized the arrest and detention of students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force following recent protests over rising insecurity in the area.

In a statement issued under the leadership of its President, Dr. Clifford Omozeghian, the association described the police action as unlawful, unconstitutional, and an abuse of power.

The alumni body maintained that the students were merely exercising their civic rights to protest against persistent cases of kidnapping and insecurity in and around Ekpoma, Edo State.

According to the association, some of the arrested students were reportedly picked up from their hostels and private residences without warrants, due process, or prior notification to their families.

It argued that such actions violate fundamental human rights, including the rights to personal liberty, dignity, freedom of expression, and peaceful assembly as guaranteed under Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution.

The alumni group further accused the police of acting as agents of intimidation rather than protectors of citizens, stressing that such conduct damages public confidence in law enforcement and paints Edo State in a negative light nationally and internationally.

Reiterating that “students are not criminals and peaceful protest is not a crime,” the association insisted that any allegations against students must be handled through lawful procedures rather than mass arrests and harassment.

The AAU Alumni Association outlined several demands, including: public apology from the Edo State Commissioner of Police within 24 hours; the immediate and unconditional release of all detained students; an independent investigation into the conduct of the police officers involved; a review of the circumstances surrounding the arrests; and the establishment of protocols to prevent future violations of students’ rights.

The association warned that failure to meet these demands could lead to further lawful and democratic actions.

In the same statement, the alumni body commended Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for addressing some longstanding issues at the university, including unpaid salaries and the reinstatement of dismissed staff, describing his actions as signs of responsible leadership.