Protest: NANS kicks as court remands 52 Ambrose Alli varsity students, others

By John Ogunsemore

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has deplored the remand of 52 persons, including students of the Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, Edo State, in a correctional facility by a court in the state.

Justice William Aziegbemi of the Edo State High Court ordered the remand of the defendants at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre on Monday.

This followed their arraignment for malicious damage and armed robbery by the police.

In a statement signed by its National Public Relations Officer (PRO), Comrade Samson Adeyemi, NANS said the remand of the students “who peacefully protested against the rising cases of kidnapping and insecurity affecting students and their host communities” is “unacceptable and deeply disturbing”.

The statement reads, “It is ridiculous, unacceptable, and deeply disturbing that students who exercised their constitutional right to peaceful protest are now being subjected to psychological trauma, intimidation, and the harsh experience of detention.

“Peaceful protest is not a crime, and demanding safety should never be met with repression.

“NANS categorically states that the government, the management of Ambrose Alli University, and the Nigeria Police Force must jointly ensure that nothing happens to any of the detained students.

“Their safety, physical and mental wellbeing must be guaranteed at all times.”

NANS demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all 52 students, noting that any attempt to delay, manipulate, or justify their continued detention would be viewed as a deliberate act of oppression against the Nigerian student community.

The national student body said, “It is alarming that instead of addressing the genuine concerns of kidnapping and insecurity, authorities have chosen to criminalise students for speaking out.

“This approach is counterproductive, unjust, and capable of escalating tension.

“NANS stands in total solidarity with the affected students and their families.

“We will not hesitate to mobilise and take all lawful steps necessary should these students not be released immediately and unconditionally.”

NANS maintained that Nigerian students deserve safety, not suppression.