Gov. Okpebholo Exposes "Stage-Managed" Ekpoma Unrest; Orders Immediate Release of Detained AAU Students
BENIN CITY – Governor Monday Okpebholo has formally cleared the student body of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) of any involvement in the recent violent unrest in Ekpoma, labeling the incident a criminal enterprise designed for looting rather than a legitimate protest.
Following a high-level security meeting on Tuesday with the AAU Students’ Union Government (SUG) leadership, the Governor revealed that the disturbances were orchestrated by a notorious group known as the “Ambrose Alli Comrade Community.” According to intelligence reports, this group consists of non-students and former students who loiter around the campus to extort the university community.
Key Highlights from the Governor’s Briefing:
- Criminality Over Activism: The Governor stated that the unrest was not a protest but a cover for looting and the destruction of local markets.
- The "Kidnapping" Hoax: Okpebholo dismissed reports of kidnappings in the area as "fake and stage-managed," alleging that individuals were "arranging to kidnap and release themselves" to incite ethnic tension.
- Justice for the Fallen: The Governor expressed deep regret over a fatality recorded during the chaos, vowing that those responsible—including political sponsors—will face the full weight of the law.
- Student Amnesty: In a major relief for the academic community, the Governor promised the immediate release of any genuine students caught in the security sweep, handing them over directly to the SUG President.
"I don’t care whether you are a politician or not. If you are using people to destroy our land and economy, we will go after you... we will bring those responsible to book to ensure justice for our people." > — Governor Monday Okpebholo
Official Denials from AAU Leadership
Both the university management and the student body have moved to distance themselves from the violence.
Comrade Osadebamen Ehizogie Michael, the AAU SUG President, thanked the Governor for his discernment, stating, "It is pitiable that some want to associate this with students. We did not organize any protest." This sentiment was echoed by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Admin), Prof. Andrew Eromonsele, who confirmed that no arrests were made within the university gates, further proving that the unrest was an external criminal matter.
Current Status of the Institution
The Edo State Government reminded the public that Ambrose Alli University remains officially closed. Security agencies have been instructed to remain vigilant and decisively deal with criminal elements exploiting the school’s environment.
The meeting was also attended by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, signaling a coordinated effort between the state’s security and educational sectors to restore total peace to Ekpoma.
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