Fight Bandits, Not Students — Peter Obi Challenges Edo Government

Former Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has strongly criticized the Edo State Government over the arrest and detention of 52 students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma.

In a public statement, Obi expressed deep concern over what he described as a misplaced response by authorities, warning that targeting students who protested against insecurity while violent criminals remain free poses a serious threat to democratic values.

According to Obi, the detained students were exercising their constitutional right by drawing attention to the worsening security situation in their community. He emphasized that their protest was centered on the persistent cases of kidnapping and banditry affecting residents and students in Ekpoma and surrounding areas.

The former Anambra State governor described the arrests as troubling, stressing that the students were not engaged in criminal activity but were instead demanding protection and safety. He noted that responding to peaceful civic action with force reflects a dangerous misunderstanding of governance and public accountability.

Obi further stated that reports indicate the students were allegedly taken from their hostels during nighttime operations, following demonstrations against rising insecurity. He described this development as a disturbing reversal of priorities, where those calling for safety are punished while those responsible for violence continue to operate unchecked.

Reacting to the incident, Obi stated that he had just been informed of the remand of the 52 students and described their actions as courageous. He emphasized that protesting against kidnappers and bandits should never be treated as a crime in a democratic society.

He warned that silencing citizens who speak out against insecurity undermines public trust and weakens democratic institutions. Obi stressed that governments at all levels must focus their energy on addressing criminal activities rather than suppressing legitimate public outcry.

According to him, it is unacceptable that young people demanding safety are treated as offenders, while criminals who terrorize communities remain free and unaccountable. He described the situation as both alarming and unjust, urging authorities to reassess their approach.

Obi concluded by reaffirming that citizens must never be punished for voicing genuine concerns, particularly when those concerns relate to protecting lives and communities from violence. He called on the Edo State Government to redirect its efforts toward confronting insecurity and ensuring the safety of residents instead of intimidating students.