Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has criticized the arrest and detention of 52 students in Ekpoma, Edo State, calling it a dangerous approach that punishes citizens rather than addressing insecurity. Obi described the students’ protest against kidnappings and banditry as a legitimate civic action and condemned the authorities for treating them as criminals.

In a statement on Tuesday, the former presidential candidate said the students were reportedly taken from their hostels at night, highlighting what he described as a troubling inversion of priorities by the government.

Obi stated, “We cannot punish citizens for voicing legitimate grievances, especially when they are standing against the very threats that have devastated our communities. Arresting young people for demanding safety is absolutely intolerable. The government should focus on apprehending the criminals, not silencing the voices calling for justice.”

He further emphasized that continued insecurity will inevitably lead to more protests and urged leaders to act with courage and responsibility in protecting citizens rather than suppressing them.