The management of Ambrose Alli University in Ekpoma, Edo State, has disowned participants in a protest against rising kidnappings. The university claims the protesters are not registered students. The demonstration was staged to highlight persistent insecurity in the area.
On Monday, January 5, 2026, angry students and youths in Ekpoma, Edo State, staged a peaceful protest against the incessant kidnappings plaguing the area. The demonstrators aimed to draw the attention of governments at all levels to the persistent insecurity in the locality, as reported by local media.
However, the management of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), located in Ekpoma, quickly disowned the participants. In a statement issued on the same day, Otunba Mike Ade Aladenika, the Principal Assistant Registrar and Head of Information, Protocol, and Public Relations, clarified that those involved are neither registered students nor members of the University Students’ Union Government.
“The University wishes to inform the general public, students, staff, and stakeholders that the organisers of this event are not registered students, members of the University Students’ Union Government, or affiliated with the institution in any capacity,” Aladenika stated.
The university emphasized its dissociation from the protest, describing it as unauthorized and null and void. Management condemned any attempts to disrupt the peaceful academic environment and warned that such actions would face appropriate measures to safeguard the institution’s interests.
Aladenika added, “We appeal to all students, staff, and visitors to cooperate with university authorities to maintain peace and stability on campus.” Adequate security arrangements have been put in place to prevent disturbances.
The protest highlights ongoing concerns over rising kidnappings in Esan West Local Government Area, though the university insists the participants have no connection to AAU.
