NANS Condemns Detention of 52 AAU Students Over Anti-Kidnapping Protest, Public Demands Stronger Action

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13/01/26 • 20 意见 • 0 分享 • 出版于其他

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the continued detention of 52 students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, Edo State, following their recent protest against the rising cases of kidnapping and insecurity in the state. The development has triggered nationwide outrage, with students, civil society groups, parents, and social media users accusing authorities of criminalising peaceful dissent rather than addressing the worsening security crisis.

The protest, held in Ekpoma, was organised by students and concerned residents who said they have been living in fear due to persistent abductions, violent attacks, and killings around the university community. Witnesses insist the demonstration was peaceful, with protesters carrying placards and demanding improved security, increased patrols, and urgent intervention from the Edo State Government.

However, the protest reportedly took a disturbing turn when security operatives moved in to disperse the crowd. Dozens of students were arrested on the spot, while others were allegedly rounded up in late-night raids at hostels and off-campus lodges. The detained students were arraigned and subsequently remanded, with reports suggesting they could spend up to 14 days in custody pending further legal processes.

NANS Reacts — But Faces Criticism

In a statement, NANS condemned what it described as an “unjust and heavy-handed response” to genuine concerns about safety, insisting that peaceful protest is a constitutional right, not a crime. The association argued that it is unacceptable for students seeking protection to be treated like criminals while kidnappers remain at large.

But the NANS reaction has drawn backlash, especially online, where many accuse the body of issuing mere “routine condemnations” without taking meaningful action. Hashtags such as #FREEAAUSTUDENTSNOW have trended, with users calling the treatment of the students unfair and demanding immediate release.

Some commentators labelled NANS a “toothless bulldog,” alleging that the association has lost its longstanding image as a fearless defender of Nigerian students. Others described the situation as a sad reflection of governance priorities in Nigeria, where protesters are swiftly arrested while insecurity persists.

Fear and Anger Growing

Students on campus say the arrests have created fresh fear and uncertainty. Many expressed disappointment that instead of addressing insecurity, authorities appear more focused on silencing voices calling for safety.

Parents and human rights advocates have also condemned the detention, demanding the students’ release and warning that prolonged incarceration could fuel wider tensions across campuses nationwide.

Authorities Yet to Respond

As of the time of filing this report, Edo State authorities and security agencies have not provided a comprehensive justification for the detention. Their silence continues to deepen public suspicion and outrage.

Meanwhile, mounting pressure is being placed on NANS to move beyond statements and take decisive steps, including legal support, structured engagement with government, and possibly nationwide student action.

The detention of the 52 AAU students has now evolved beyond a campus issue—it is fast becoming a national debate on civic rights, insecurity, and the state’s handling of peaceful protests. Whether NANS will escalate its response remains uncertain, but calls for justice, safety, and the release of the detained students are growing louder.

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