Human rights and students’ organizations have intensified calls for justice following the arrest and remand of 52 students and community members in connection with last Saturday’s protest in Ekpoma, Edo State.
The protests, initially staged to express anger over rising insecurity and kidnappings affecting the community, saw participation from students of Ambrose Alli University and other residents. While many demonstrations were peaceful, some segments later resulted in clashes and property damage.
On Tuesday, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) called for the immediate release of the 52 detainees, describing their continued detention as a violation of fundamental rights. The association noted that the arrests were linked to civic expression and urged authorities to respect due process.
Similarly, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) demanded the unconditional release of the students, warning that restrictions on peaceful protest threaten democratic space on campuses. The student body said it will pursue legal avenues if necessary to secure the release of those held.
The detained individuals were remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre after appearing before a Benin High Court, where prosecutors argued that their actions contributed to public disorder. Court proceedings have so far been closed to media coverage.
Civil rights advocates stress the need for proportionality in law enforcement responses and called on the Edo State Government to engage protest leaders to address underlying security issues driving civic unrest.
