The Senator representing Kogi Central, Mrs. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the 52 students of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, who were afrested following protests over rising kidnappings and other security threats in the region.
The Kogi Central Senator in a statement on Tuesday, criticised the arrest and continued detention of the students.
She described their arrest as an attempt to stifle legitimate civic participation and silence young people speaking out against insecurity.
The Senator argued that demonstrations and public advocacy should not be treated as criminal acts in a democracy.
This is even as she accused the Edo State authorities of missing the real issue, urging them to confront the worsening security situation rather than targeting those drawing attention to it.
“Dialogue, not detention, is the pathway to peace and progress. Our youths must not be criminalised for speaking up and protesting about issues that affect their environment, welfare, and future.
“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,” she said.
The senator stressed that peaceful protest is protected under the Constitution and remains one of the most important ways citizens, especially young people, can demand accountability from those in power.
“Silencing students through arrests only deepens mistrust and widens the gap between government and the governed. Engagement and honest dialogue are the responsible responses,” Akpoti-Uduaghan added.
She concluded by expressing solidarity with the detained students and their families, saying her intervention is consistent with her long-standing commitment to justice, democratic freedoms and the empowerment of young Nigerians.
