The Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has condemned the arrest and detention of 52 students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, describing the action as a dangerous attempt to silence youth voices and stifle democratic expression.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Senator called for the immediate release of the detained students, stressing that peaceful protest and civic engagement should never be criminalized in a democratic society.

“Dialogue, not detention, is the pathway to peace and progress,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said. “Our youths must not be punished for speaking out on issues that affect their environment, welfare, and future.”

She criticized the Edo State authorities for their handling of the situation, urging them to focus on the worsening insecurity and kidnappings in the region rather than suppressing courageous and discerning voices.

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

Akpoti-Uduaghan reaffirmed her support for the students and their families, highlighting that her advocacy is part of her broader commitment to justice and youth empowerment.

The arrests, which occurred late at night across multiple student hostels in Ekpoma, followed a protest against the worsening security situation in Edo State. Many students reported that the police operation was indiscriminate and carried out away from the protest venue.

Earlier, activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore also condemned the arrests, calling them an abuse of power and a deliberate attempt to criminalize student activism. He urged the courts to grant immediate bail and quash the charges, while encouraging students to remain vigilant against repression. Sowore concluded his statement with the hashtag #RevolutionNow.