Edo Govt Clears AAU Students, Says Foreign-Backed Elements Behind Ekpoma Violence

The Edo State Government on Tuesday dismissed several social media reports linking the recent disturbances in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, to students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), describing such claims as “false, misleading, and part of a coordinated attempt to misinform the public and destabilise the state.”

In a statement signed by Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo,Patrick Akhere Ebojele, the government said the incident was not a protest but a well-organised riot sponsored by a Nigerian resident in Russia and other locations overseas.

According to the statement, security operatives have already identified the masterminds, who allegedly contacted multiple individuals in Ekpoma, proposing the organisation of coordinated riots in Ekpoma, Auchi, Irrua, and even the Government House in Benin City, with funding sourced from the diaspora.

The government firmly refuted claims that those arrested were AAU students or that arrests were made inside student hostels.

It stressed that the university was currently closed, with students having vacated hostels long before the incident. Those detained were intercepted while reportedly attempting to vandalise property on the campus. Some were also identified in viral videos showing acts of arson.

“Most of the arrests were based on clear evidence, including videos showing acts of violence and destruction,” the statement read.

“The suspects arrested are rioters, not peaceful protesters. The incident has no connection whatsoever with students or the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).”

The government also dismissed another viral video falsely claiming a kidnapping in Ekpoma, calling it a “gross misrepresentation” and part of a deliberate campaign to spread fear and tarnish the state administration’s image.

Foreign-Backed Opposition Elements Suspected

The Edo State government further warned that opposition elements, possibly with foreign backing, may be sponsoring unrest to discredit the government and create chaos.

While reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, the government urged residents to ignore fake videos and unverified reports, assuring that the situation in Ekpoma is fully under control as peace and normalcy gradually return to the town.

“Peaceful and lawful protest is a constitutional right, but violence, rioting, vandalism, and looting will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” the statement concluded.