Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has strongly criticised the arrest and continued detention of 52 students from Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, Edo State, describing the action as a serious violation of democratic principles and an attack on youth participation in governance.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the senator called for the immediate and unconditional release of the detained students, emphasising that peaceful protest and civic engagement should never be criminalised in a functioning democracy.
“Dialogue, not detention, is the pathway to peace and progress,” Akpoti-Uduaghan stated. “Our youths must not be criminalised for speaking up and protesting issues that directly affect their environment, welfare, and future.”
The lawmaker expressed deep concern over what she described as misplaced priorities by authorities in Edo State, arguing that the arrests come at a time when the state is battling escalating insecurity, including frequent kidnappings and violent crimes.
She urged the Edo State Government to redirect its focus and resources toward tackling these security challenges rather than targeting students for expressing legitimate grievances.
“The government of Edo State must prioritise confronting kidnappings and other forms of insecurity instead of suppressing discerning and courageous voices,” she said.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan further stressed that the right to peaceful protest is constitutionally protected and remains an essential tool for holding leaders accountable, especially for young Nigerians whose lives and futures are profoundly impacted by government policies and decisions.
She warned that detaining students for exercising their civic rights only serves to deepen public distrust, widen the disconnect between government and citizens, and escalate tensions rather than resolve underlying issues.
“Silencing students through arrests does not resolve grievances. It escalates tension and undermines confidence in leadership. Engagement and honest dialogue are the responsible responses,” the senator added.
Reaffirming her unwavering solidarity with the detained students and their families, Akpoti-Uduaghan noted that her intervention aligns with her consistent advocacy for justice, human rights, and the empowerment of Nigerian youth.
