The Edo State government has confirmed that 38 students of the Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were arrested during last weekend’s disturbance in the town, will be released.
Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, disclosed this on Wednesday during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, stating that the release process was already underway.
He said some of the students regained their freedom on Tuesday night, while the remaining ones were expected to be released later on Wednesday.
“We worked through the night until about 1 a.m. to secure the release of the students. Some were freed yesterday, and in total, about 38 students are being released,” Iyamu said.
The commissioner attributed the unrest to individuals who are not residents of Edo State, alleging that they instigated violence that led to vandalism and theft in the community.
He claimed that numerous property were destroyed during the incident and that items were reportedly taken from the palace of the traditional ruler in the area.
Iyamu recalled that students had earlier staged a peaceful protest on May 13, 2025, over issues related to cultism, which he said was properly coordinated and orderly.
“During that protest, the governor personally received them at the Government House, addressed their concerns, and the situation was handled peacefully,” he said.
He stressed that while the government remains open to dialogue, taking the law into one’s hands, looting properties, or invading the palace of a traditional ruler was unacceptable.
Governor Monday Okpebholo had earlier mandated the commissioner for education to work with relevant authorities to facilitate the release of genuine AAU students.
The students were among 52 individuals initially arrested and remanded on Monday in connection with the unrest.
Speaking to journalists at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre, Iyamu said the release would apply only to verified students after necessary administrative checks.
He also dismissed claims circulating on social media that the protest was organised by students, noting that the university was not in session and that there was no approval from the Student Union Government.
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“There is a lot of misinformation online. No formal notice was given to security agencies. These acts were carried out by former students and external groups exploiting the situation,” he said.
Iyamu alleged that a group identified as the Comrade Association had co-opted some individuals to cause chaos, adding that their actions did not reflect the character of Edo students.
He reaffirmed the governor’s position that any legitimate AAU student involved would be released unconditionally.
“Governor Monday Okpebholo has made it clear that all bona fide students will be freed and allowed to return home,” he said.
Following the restoration of calm, the Edo State Government has approved the resumption of academic activities at Ambrose Alli University.
A communiqué issued on Wednesday directed students to return to campus on Monday, as security had been strengthened and normalcy restored.
“The university will reopen on Monday. The governor is still in the area to ensure peace is sustained, and security agencies are actively maintaining order,” Iyamu added.
