A Federal High Court sitting in Edo State has ordered the remand of 52 individuals arrested in connection with an anti-kidnapping protest held in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of the state.
The protesters, said to include students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), were arraigned on charges bordering on alleged malicious damage to property and armed robbery.
According to court documents, the arrests followed a protest against rising incidents of kidnapping in Ekpoma, which security authorities allege later degenerated into violence. It was alleged that during the demonstration, some shops and other properties were vandalised, while items were reportedly looted.
The prosecution told the court that the accused persons were apprehended in connection with the alleged acts during the protest. The defendants, however, are yet to enter their pleas.
The presiding judge ordered that the suspects be remanded in custody pending further proceedings and adjourned the matter to a later date for continuation of hearing.
The protest had been organised by residents and students to draw attention to growing security concerns in Ekpoma, following recent incidents that have heightened fear within the community.
Authorities have maintained that investigations are ongoing, while reiterating the right of citizens to peaceful protest, provided it does not lead to the breakdown of law and order.
