The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called for the immediate and unconditional release of 52 students from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, who were remanded in prison on Monday by a court.
The students had been arrested while protesting the rising incidents of kidnapping and abduction in Ekpoma and surrounding areas.
In a statement signed by its National Public Relations Officer, Comrade Adeyemi Ajasa, NANS emphasized that the students were simply demanding that the government fulfill its responsibility to protect lives and property, and should not be jailed for exercising their right to peaceful protest.
The statement read, “The National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, strongly condemns the continued detention and court remand of fifty-two (52) students of Ambrose Alli University who peacefully protested against the rising cases of kidnapping and insecurity affecting students and their host communities.
“It is ridiculous, unacceptable, and deeply disturbing that students who exercised their constitutional right to peaceful protest are now being subjected to psychological trauma, intimidation, and the harsh experience of detention. Peaceful protest is not a crime, and demanding safety should never be met with repression.
“NANS categorically states that the government, the management of Ambrose Alli University, and the Nigeria Police Force must jointly ensure that nothing happens to any of the detained students. Their safety, physical and mental wellbeing must be guaranteed at all times.
“We further demand the immediate and unconditional release of all 52 students. Any attempt to delay, manipulate, or justify their continued detention will be viewed as a deliberate act of oppression against the Nigerian student community.
“It is alarming that instead of addressing the genuine concerns of kidnapping and insecurity, authorities have chosen to criminalize students for speaking out. This approach is counterproductive, unjust, and capable of escalating tension.
“NANS stands in total solidarity with the affected students and their families. We will not hesitate to mobilize and take all lawful steps necessary should these students not be released immediately and unconditionally. Nigerian students deserve safety, not suppression.”
