AAU Pro-Chancellor Commends Edo Govt Over Students’ Release, Warns Against Politicising Ekpoma Security Crisis

Ekpoma — The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, Chief Dan Osi Orbih, has commended the Edo State Government for its swift and decisive intervention that led to the release of bona fide students arrested during recent security operations in Ekpoma.

In a statement issued Tuesday 23 January, 2026 on the recent developments in the university host community, Chief Orbih praised the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo for demonstrating fairness, responsibility, and a clear commitment to justice through the verification and release of innocent students.

According to him, the action has significantly eased tension within the university community and reassured parents, guardians, and stakeholders that the welfare of AAU students remains a top priority of the Edo State Government.

The Pro-Chancellor, however, expressed deep concern over attempts by some individuals and groups to politicise the security challenges confronting Ekpoma and its environs, warning that such actions are dangerous and counterproductive.

He stressed that security is a collective responsibility and should never be reduced to partisan politics or propaganda, noting that criminality and insecurity do not recognise political parties, ethnic identities, or personal affiliations.

“When lives and property are threatened, everyone stands to lose — government, institutions, political actors, traditional leaders, students, and residents alike,” he stated.

Chief Orbih strongly condemned the twisting of facts, spread of misinformation, and incitement of the public under the guise of advocacy, describing such conduct as a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and undermine genuine efforts to restore peace.

He cautioned that dragging Ambrose Alli University into political narratives is irresponsible, stressing that the institution is an academic environment, not a battleground for political contestation.

Providing clarity on the arrests, the Pro-Chancellor disclosed that out of the fifty-two (52) persons arrested in connection with the incident, thirty-eight (38) were confirmed to be students of Ambrose Alli University.

While commending the release of innocent students, he called on the Nigeria Police and other relevant security agencies to continue with thorough, transparent, and unbiased investigations to unravel the full circumstances surrounding the alleged criminal activities.

He emphasized that any individual found to be connected with kidnapping or other criminal acts must be brought to justice, regardless of status, influence, political affiliation, or state of origin, insisting that justice must be firm and uncompromising to restore public confidence and guarantee lasting peace.

Chief Orbih further appealed to critical stakeholders, including political leaders across party lines, community leaders, civil society organisations, youth groups, and opinion moulders, to rise above politics and collaborate sincerely with security agencies and government authorities in tackling the root causes of insecurity.

According to him, constructive engagement, intelligence sharing, and community cooperation remain the most effective tools for confronting criminal elements who exploit vulnerable environments for selfish ends.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the University Governing Council to working closely with the Edo State Government, security agencies, and host communities to ensure a safe, peaceful, and conducive environment for learning and academic excellence at Ambrose Alli University.

“This is a time for unity, responsibility, and truth, not propaganda,” the Pro-Chancellor stated, warning against allowing opportunists to hijack serious security concerns and turn them into vehicles for misinformation and division.

He concluded by stressing that Ambrose Alli University belongs to all, and that its safety, integrity, and future must be protected collectively, irrespective of political or personal interests.