Senator Natasha condemns arrest, detention of 52 students in Edo state

The lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has reacted to the controversial detention of 52 students of the Ambrose Alli University (AAU) who were arrested and detained for protesting the rising kidnapping in Edo State.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the lawmaker described the arrest and detention of the students as unlawful and a dangerous path towards the suppression of youth voices and democratic expression.

Calling for the immediate release of the students, Akopti-Uduaghan said protest is a civic engagement and must never be criminalised in a democratic society like Nigeria.

According to the lawmaker, the pathway to peace and progress following the grievance raised by the students is dialogue and detention.

“Dialogue, not detention, is the pathway to peace and progress. Our youths must not be criminalised for speaking up and protesting about issues that affect their environment, welfare, and future.

“The government of Edo State must focus on addressing the concerns of kidnappings and other forms of insecurity, rather than suppressing discerning and courageous voices,” Akpoti-Uduaghan stated.

While reaffirming her solidarity with the detained students, their families, and Nigerian youths, the lawmaker noted that protests must be viewed as a constitutional right and a vital tool for accountability, especially for young people whose futures are directly impacted by governance failures.

“Silencing students through arrests only deepens mistrust and widens the gap between government and the governed. Engagement and honest dialogue are the responsible responses,” the Senator added.