The Honorable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande’s intervention has led to the release of 38 students of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, and 14 other persons who were remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre over their alleged involvement in a protest against incessant kidnappings in the community, which later turned violent.
The 52 persons arrested and subsequently remanded at the correctional facility on Monday arrived at the Edo State Government House on Wednesday, at about 10:00 pm, where they were received by the Minister for Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, the Executive Governor, His Excellency, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, the Deputy Governor, Commissioner for Education , Commissioner For Youth and Sport, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, NANS President, among others.
In his speech, Comrade Ayodele Olawande expressed appreciation to the Edo State Governor for his leadership, humility, and efforts leading to the release of the detained individuals, stating that the Governor has once again demonstrated his commitment to serving the people of Edo State. He condemned the attack on the traditional ruler and his wife, describing it as unacceptable and unjustifiable, while emphasizing that peaceful protest is a constitutional right that should be exercised without violence.
The Youth Minister assured young people of the administration’s continued support, appealing for collective responsibility in nation-building under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership.
In his address, the Executive Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, reaffirmed his commitment to eradicating banditry and cultism in the state, condemning the violent acts that occurred during the protests, and urging critical stakeholders to join him in the fight against the state’s common enemy.
Governor Okpebholo expressed his strong affinity for education, with a particular emphasis on Ambrose Alli University, which falls within his constituency, noting that significant reforms have been implemented since he assumed office.
Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, commended the Governor’s leadership in effectively managing the situation, acknowledging his responsiveness to the citizens’ concerns, which culminated in the release of the students. He assured the Governor that the students would demonstrate improved conduct going forward.
The President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Olushola Oladoja, has lauded the Governor’s decision to release students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) and other detained individuals, acknowledging the students’ rights and freedoms. This move demonstrates the Governor’s commitment to upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and respect for human rights. Comrade Oladoja praised the Governor for recognizing students as critical stakeholders in nation-building, emphasizing that their voices and contributions are vital to Nigeria’s development.
He urged the Governor to continue fostering an environment conducive to academic excellence, peace, and stability, allowing students to focus on their studies and contribute positively to society.
The President of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) of Ambrose Alli University’s, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his prompt action and generosity in securing the release of the students.
One of the released students from AAU expressed profound gratitude to the Governor for his unwavering support and affection for the university and the people of Edo State, apologizing for the behavior exhibited during the incident.
