The Edo State Police Command has released the first batch of students of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, who were arrested in connection with a recent protest that degenerated into violence.
The students were released on Monday evening and formally handed over to the state Commissioner for Education, Mr Paddy Iyamu, in Benin City.
Speaking with journalists after receiving the students, Iyamu said preliminary investigations showed that those freed were not directly involved in the criminal acts recorded during the protest.
He, however, maintained that the demonstration was hijacked by individuals who allegedly engaged in looting, vandalism and attacks on residents, actions he said went far beyond legitimate protest.
Iyamu stressed that the state government would not condone criminality under any guise, noting that Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, bears constitutional responsibility for the safety of all residents.
According to him, the police acted within the law by arresting suspects during the operation, while the government ensured that those found not culpable were promptly released.
He explained that the directive of the governor was clear: innocent persons must regain their freedom, while anyone found to have committed crimes must face the full weight of the law.
The commissioner urged residents and students to always adopt lawful means in airing grievances, warning that violence and destruction of property would attract firm consequences.
The police, he added, are continuing investigations to identify and prosecute those allegedly responsible for the reported acts of violence during the protest.
