Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has reassured students, parents and staff of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, of his administration’s commitment to their safety and welfare following the recent violent protests that rocked the university town.
The governor gave the assurance during a visit to the institution, where he met with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Andrew Eromonsele, and the President of the Student Union Government, Comrade Osadebamen Ehizogie Michael, to assess the security situation and review arrests made in the wake of the unrest.
Governor Okpebholo said his administration has no quarrel with the students of AAU, stressing that the government has invested more in the university community than any previous administration in the history of Edo State.
“I want to reassure students, parents, and the entire AAU community that my administration has nothing against the students,” the governor stated. “We have done more for AAU than any previous government.”
He disclosed that he had directed security agencies to identify and immediately release any genuine students who may have been arrested during the operation to restore law and order in Ekpoma.
However, the governor condemned the destruction of markets and private property during the protests, describing the acts as criminal and unacceptable.
He warned that anyone found to be sponsoring or using hoodlums to cause unrest in the town would face the full weight of the law, regardless of their social or political status.
“The destruction of markets and property in Ekpoma is condemnable, and anyone found sponsoring or using hoodlums to destabilize our communities will be brought to justice,” Okpebholo said.
He further revealed that security agencies are currently carrying out technology-driven operations in and around Ekpoma, including combing surrounding bushes, leading to the arrest of suspected kidnappers and the recovery of firearms.
According to him, the government will continue to dismantle criminal networks not only in Ekpoma but across the entire Edo State.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to restore lasting peace in the university town and ensure that criminal elements do not hold Edo State hostage.
“My government remains fully committed to restoring peace in Ekpoma and ensuring that Edo State is not held hostage by criminal elements,” he added.
The visit was seen as part of the state government’s efforts to de-escalate tensions and rebuild confidence among residents and members of the Ambrose Alli University community following the recent unrest.
