Atiku Demands Immediate Release of 52 AAU Students
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has demanded the immediate release of 52 students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) who were reportedly arrested following a protest, condemning their detention as a violation of constitutional rights.
In a statement, Atiku described the arrest of the students as unjustified, stressing that peaceful protest is a fundamental right guaranteed under Nigeria’s Constitution. He warned that criminalising student activism and dissent undermines democracy and the rule of law.
The former vice president called on security agencies and relevant authorities to act within the bounds of the law and ensure that the students are freed without delay. He also urged the Edo State Government and university management to address the grievances that led to the protest through dialogue rather than repression.
Atiku noted that Nigeria’s democratic space must be protected, adding that young people should not be intimidated for expressing legitimate concerns. He appealed for calm while insisting that justice and respect for human rights must prevail.
The arrest of the AAU students has sparked reactions from civil society groups and student bodies, with growing calls for their release and a peaceful resolution of the issues surrounding the protest.
