Students of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic in Ikot Osurua, Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, took to the streets in protest, raising concerns about rising insecurity.
They also highlighted the ongoing issue of police brutality affecting the student body.
They expressed their frustration by declaring that they no longer feel safe in their environment.
Led by the Student Union President, Geoffrey George, the protesters gathered at the institution’s main gate at 8:15 a.m., chanting solidarity songs and holding up placards with powerful messages. Some of the signs read “End Police Brutality Now,” “Protect, Save, Don’t Abuse,” and “This Extortion Must Stop.”
In a conversation with reporters, George recalled the continuous harassment students face at the hands of both police officers and criminals within the community.
He pointed to a viral video from the previous week, where a student was filmed being violently beaten and dragged by police officers.
He also highlighted the issue of police extortion, particularly in Ikot Ekpene, where students are frequently targeted.
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George emphasized the danger faced by students living near the school, mentioning that hoodlums often steal phones and, in some cases, even kill students.
He disclosed that in the past year, more than five students have been murdered by robbers who broke into their homes, stole their phones, and killed them, all while the police failed to intervene.
A student activist, who requested anonymity, explained that the protest would continue in order to push for government action.
“This morning, the Rector met with the SUG Executives and warned us to stop the protest, but we will not back down. Our students’ safety is at risk, and we must make it known that the police are not doing enough to protect us,” the activist asserted.
In response, the state’s Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, stated that the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, had invited the students to a meeting to address their concerns.
“The Commissioner has called for a meeting with the students, and we are waiting for them to attend. There will be no protest today,” John confirmed.
He added that the students gathered at the gate were preparing to meet with the Commissioner.
Crediblenewsng.com
