Patience Ndidi Ofure-Key, former PRP presidential aspirant and Edo State governorship candidate, has raised concerns over the reported arrest of Ambrose Alli University students following a violent anti-kidnapping protest in Ekpoma. She described the alleged raids on hostels and detention of students as acts of intimidation rather than genuine public safety measures, stressing that democracy cannot be maintained by frightening citizens.

Ofure-Key urged the Edo State Government, security agencies, and university authorities to investigate the allegations and immediately release innocent students and residents. She emphasized that peaceful protests are not crimes and that authorities should focus on tackling criminals, not punishing those raising legitimate safety concerns.

Highlighting the growing insecurity in Ekpoma, the PRP chieftain noted that fear has disrupted daily life, with parents, students, and communities feeling unsafe. She stressed that government has a primary responsibility to protect lives and welfare, warning that neglect fuels anger and protest, sometimes dangerously.

Ndidi-Key also called for an urgent, clear security plan with measurable interventions, joint campus-community patrols, emergency reporting systems, and accountability in the use of security funds. She urged authorities to prioritize safety, justice, and transparency, warning that suppressing citizens’ cries instead of addressing insecurity would only worsen the situation in Ekpoma.