Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has officially welcomed the students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, following their recent release after being detained in connection with the Ekpoma protest. During this reception, the Governor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to open dialogue, university reform, and the overall advancement of both the institution and the state.
The event, held at the Government House Banquet Hall in Benin City, brought together AAU students, government officials, and other key stakeholders.
In his address, Governor Okpebholo expressed his distress over the violent escalation of the protests, emphasizing his commitment to the revitalization of Ambrose Alli University since taking office. “I felt deep sorrow witnessing the events unfold in my community. Upon my inauguration, I pledged to restore Ambrose Alli University to its former glory,” he stated.
The Governor highlighted the university’s past financial struggles, explaining that the combined monthly budget for utilities, payroll, and other expenses was just ₦41 million. In contrast, he revealed that a consultant received ₦59 million under a previous administration. “Recognizing this, I immediately increased the university’s monthly budget from ₦41 million to ₦500 million to strategically reposition the institution,” he added.
Governor Okpebholo further disclosed that AAU staff are owed approximately ₦41 billion in outstanding salaries and wage arrears, indicating that his administration is exploring measures to address this critical financial issue incrementally.
Addressing the topic of protests, the Governor urged students to refrain from being manipulated by criminal elements and to concentrate on their academic pursuits. He remarked, “If you’re protesting, what exactly are you standing up for? Focus on your studies to succeed.”
He acknowledged the ongoing security challenges in Ekpoma and across Nigeria, emphasizing that insecurity is a shared concern that requires collective action. “Just as you fear for your safety, I also share that fear. Kidnappers don’t discriminate based on status – it’s a communal threat,” he stated.
Governor Okpebholo pointed out that investigations indicated that many perpetrators of local criminal activities were from the Ekpoma area. “When security forces investigated, they found that many involved in these incidents were locals. We need to assess who our true adversary is,” he noted.
Condemning the looting and property damage during the protests, he questioned the logic behind such actions in light of economic hardships: “If you’re hungry, why would you destroy the very shops that serve your community? Would you be happy if it were your property?”
He called on students and youth to adopt a peaceful approach to engagement, assuring them that those engaging in criminal behavior would not find refuge in Edo State. “We must work collaboratively for the betterment of Edo. Even if some individuals are innocent, we shall not tolerate any safe haven for criminals,” he affirmed.
The Governor also cited the significant reconstruction project of the Benin–Auchi Road, which was awarded at a cost of approximately ₦135 billion soon after he addressed the issue with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, illustrating the positive outcomes of constructive dialogue.
Dr. Paddy Iyamu, the Commissioner for Education, praised Governor Okpebholo for his prompt actions supporting education and facilitating the students’ release. Other speakers lauded the Governor for choosing dialogue over confrontation and prioritizing the welfare of the university community.
The gathering, which included Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Chief of Staff Mallam Gani Audu, the Minister of Youth, and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Youth Engagement, marked an important step towards reconciliation and renewed cooperation between the Edo State Government and the Ambrose Alli University community in the aftermath of the Ekpoma crisis.
