A Federal High Court sitting in Edo State has ordered the remand of 52 protesters, including students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), over alleged vandalism and armed robbery linked to an anti-kidnapping protest in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area.

The protesters were arrested after a demonstration against rising cases of kidnapping in the area turned violent on Saturday, leading to the looting and destruction of shops and other properties.

Delivering his ruling on Monday, Justice William Aziegbemi held that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction to hear the matter. He directed defence counsel to file bail applications before the Ubiaja High Court.

The judge adjourned the case to February 26, 2026, for hearing and ordered that the suspects be remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre.

Residents of Ekpoma and neighbouring communities had taken to the streets to demand urgent government action over the worsening security situation, particularly frequent kidnappings. However, the Edo State Police Command said the protest was later hijacked by hoodlums, resulting in widespread vandalism and looting.

During the unrest, the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II, was reportedly attacked, an incident condemned by Governor Monday Okpebholo.

The police said officers, alongside other security agencies, were deployed to restore calm after the situation escalated. It was also reported that a military personnel discharged a firearm, injuring a 32-year-old protester, Osagie Abraham.

According to the police, the injured protester is currently receiving treatment at a medical facility in Ekpoma, while the military authorities have been informed for necessary disciplinary action.

The command reiterated that while citizens have a constitutional right to peaceful protest, such actions must be conducted within the confines of the law. It also assured residents that security operations across the state have been intensified to curb kidnapping and other criminal activities.

The protest followed a surge in kidnapping incidents in Edo State, including recent abductions and killings of medical doctors, which have heightened public concern over security.