Just got news from Ekpoma. Violence during protests against kidnappings left 52 people arrested, including 38 AAU students.

Governor Okpebholo has stepped in, met with student leaders, and ordered the release of verified AAU students. The first seven are now with the education commissioner.

The governor also blamed ex-students allegedly sponsored from abroad for stirring the chaos. Locals are showing support, while police continue to tout kidnapping busts amid ongoing security concerns.

This raises questions: Are protests being hijacked? Or is this just another example of students paying the price for bigger politics?