The Edo State Government has announced the release of 38 students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were arrested during unrest that broke out in the area last weekend.
The Commissioner for Education, Mr Paddy Iyamu, disclosed this on Wednesday while speaking on The Morning Brief, a programme on Channels Television.
He said that while some of the students were released on Tuesday, others would regain their freedom later on Wednesday. According to Iyamu, the state government worked through the night to secure the students’ release.
“We didn’t sleep till 1 a.m. this morning, trying to release the students, some of them yesterday. Altogether, we are releasing about 38 students,” he said.
The commissioner explained that the disturbance was not solely the handiwork of students, noting that individuals from outside Edo State allegedly infiltrated the area and instigated the violence.
He said the situation escalated after the suspects fomented trouble, leading to the destruction of public and private property. Iyamu also revealed that during the unrest, some items were reportedly stolen from the palace of the traditional ruler in the area, further compounding the situation.
He assured that the state government was committed to restoring calm and order in Ekpoma, while also ensuring that innocent students were not unduly punished.
He added that investigations were ongoing to identify and prosecute those responsible for instigating the violence.
The Edo State Government appealed to students and residents to remain law-abiding and cooperate with security agencies to maintain peace in the community.
