The National Association of Nigerian Students has condemned the continued detention of 52 students of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, who were remanded following a protest against rising cases of kidnapping and insecurity in Edo State.
In a Monday statement signed by its National Public Relations Officer, Adeyemi Ajasa, NANS described the detention as “ridiculous, unacceptable, and deeply disturbing,” insisting that students exercising their constitutional right to peaceful protest should not face intimidation, harassment, or psychological trauma.
“Peaceful protest is not a crime, and demanding safety should never be met with repression,” the statement read.
NANS also urged the Edo State Government, AAU management, and the Nigeria Police Force to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the detained students, adding,“Their safety, physical and mental wellbeing must be guaranteed at all times.”
The student body further demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all the students, warning that any attempt to delay or justify their detention would be “viewed as a deliberate act of oppression against the Nigerian student community.”
NANS criticised authorities for criminalising students instead of addressing the genuine insecurity affecting schools and host communities.
“It is alarming that instead of addressing the genuine concerns of kidnapping and insecurity, authorities have chosen to criminalise students for speaking out.
“This approach is counterproductive, unjust, and capable of escalating tension,” the association added.
NANS reaffirmed its solidarity with the affected students and their families, pledging to mobilise and take all lawful steps necessary should the students not be released immediately.
“Nigerian students deserve safety, not suppression,” the statement concluded.
The students were remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre by the Benin High Court over charges including malicious damage and armed robbery.
Justice William Aziegbemi, who presided over the case on Monday, said he lacked jurisdiction and directed the defendants’ counsel to file bail applications at the Ubiaja High Court.
The case has been adjourned to February 26, 2026.
Some of the students told reporters that they were arrested at around 3 a.m. while sleeping in their hostels and were not involved in the protest or subsequent violence, which saw hoodlums hijack the demonstration, attack traders, burn tyres, and vandalise the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II.
Relatives of the detainees reportedly wept as the suspects were led away in a black Maria van.
