The governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo has debunked claims that he is against those who protested the rising killings and abductions of students in Ekpoma.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the governor who met with the management of the Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma in Edo State said he is working with the institution to review the recent security situation in the area and the state as a whole.
Recall that 52 students were arrested and detained by the Edo State government over their involvement in a protest that rocked Ekpoma over growing insecurity within the area.
However meeting with the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration of AAU, Professor Andrew Eromonsele, the President of the Student Union of Ambrose Alli University, Osadebamen Michael, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to the students, parents and the AAU community.
His words, “I want to reassure students, parents, and the entire AAU community that my administration has nothing against the students. In fact, we have done more for the AAU community than any previous administration in the history of Edo State.”
He further directed that any confirmed student of the institution who has been unlawfully arrested in the process of restoring order will be promptly identified and released.
“The destruction of markets and property in Ekpoma is condemnable, and anyone found sponsoring or using hoodlums to destabilise our communities will be brought to justice, regardless of status or affiliation.
“The relevant security agencies, using technology-driven operations, are combing the bushes, leading to the arrest of suspected kidnappers and the recovery of firearms. We will continue to dismantle these criminal networks across Edo State.
“My government remains fully committed to restoring peace in Ekpoma and ensuring that Edo State is not held hostage by criminal elements,” Okpebholo said.