Popular journalist and broadcaster Rufai Oseni has reacted strongly to the arrest of over 52 students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were detained after protesting the rising cases of kidnappings and insecurity in Edo State.
Oseni, in a post reacting to the development, criticised what he described as the government’s misplaced priorities, accusing authorities of being quick to suppress peaceful protests while engaging in negotiations with criminal elements.
“We are quick to arrest protesters who protest against insecurity that the government can’t solve, while we negotiate with the bandits,” Oseni said.
The students were reportedly arrested after staging demonstrations over the incessant kidnappings affecting Ekpoma and its environs, a situation that has generated fear among residents and the academic community. Reports indicate that the arrests were carried out after security operatives tracked some of the protesters to their hostels.
