Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reassured students, parents, and residents of Ekpoma that his administration remains firmly committed to peace, justice, and the protection of innocent citizens following recent violent protests in the university town.
In a statement posted on his official X handle on Tuesday, the governor disclosed that he met earlier in the day with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Prof. Andrew Eromonsele, and the President of the AAU Student Union, Comrade Osadebamen Ehizogie Michael, to review the prevailing security situation and arrests made during efforts to restore order.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that his government harbours no ill intent toward students, stressing that his administration has prioritised the welfare and development of the AAU community more than any previous government in Edo State. He assured that any genuine student arrested in the course of security operations would be promptly identified and released.
While expressing sympathy with law-abiding residents, the governor strongly condemned the destruction of markets and private property in Ekpoma, warning that anyone found sponsoring or deploying hoodlums to destabilise the community would face the full weight of the law, irrespective of status or affiliation.
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He further revealed that security agencies are conducting technology-driven operations across affected areas, combing nearby bushes and criminal hideouts. According to him, these operations have already led to the arrest of suspected kidnappers and the recovery of firearms, as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks across the state.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to restore calm in Ekpoma and ensure that Edo State is not held hostage by criminal elements, pledging sustained collaboration with security agencies and community stakeholders to maintain lasting peace.