Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has issued a strong condemnation following the arrest and detention of fifty-two students from Ambrose Alli University (AAU) in Edo State. The federal lawmaker described the government's action as a severe threat to democratic expression and the voices of young Nigerians.
Protest Against Kidnappings Turns Violent
The students were taken into custody after a demonstration in Ekpoma, the headquarters of Esan West Local Government Area. The protest initially began as a peaceful assembly by students demanding action against the alarming rise in kidnappings and violent killings in the region.
However, the situation escalated into violence. Reports indicate that several shops were looted during the unrest, and the palace of the Onogie of Ekpoma was vandalised. It was in the aftermath of this violence that security forces moved in to arrest the students.
Senator Natasha's Firm Stance: Dialogue Over Detention
In a statement released on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, called for the immediate and unconditional release of the detained scholars. She argued that in a functioning democracy, protest and civic engagement must not be criminalised.
"Dialogue, not detention, is the pathway to peace and progress," the senator was quoted as saying. "Our youths must not be criminalised for speaking up and protesting about issues that affect their environment, welfare, and future."
She directly faulted the Edo State government's approach, urging a shift in focus from suppressing protests to tackling the root cause of the citizens' anger: pervasive insecurity.
"The government of Edo State must focus on addressing the concerns of kidnappings and other forms of insecurity, rather than suppressing discerning and courageous voices," Akpoti-Uduaghan stated. "Silencing students through arrests only deepens mistrust and widens the gap between government and the governed."
Government Response and Path to Release
Following the senator's intervention, Governor Monday Okpebholo reportedly directed the state Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, to oversee the process of releasing the students. Iyamu visited the Ubiaja Correctional Centre and assured the public that genuine AAU students would be freed once necessary procedures were completed.
The commissioner, however, claimed that the violent turn of events was instigated by a group known as the Comrade Association, which he described as comprising former students who exploit opportunities to cause disorder.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan concluded her message by reaffirming her solidarity with the detained students and their families, aligning this advocacy with her broader commitment to justice, youth empowerment, and democratic freedoms.
