Tension erupted in Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, as thousands of students took to the streets on Monday, protesting against rampant police brutality, extortion, and worsening insecurity** that has claimed multiple student lives.
Led by Student Union President Geoffrey George, the enraged students blocked the institution’s main gate, chanting solidarity songs and waving placards with messages such as End Police Brutality Now and This Extortion Must Stop.
Their frustration stems from a viral video showing policemen mercilessly beating and dragging a student a shocking incident that has fueled longstanding grievances.
Students face constant harassment and extortion from policemen in Ikot Ekpene. We are not safe, especially those living off-campus. Hoodlums frequently attack, steal from, and even kill students, yet the police turn a blind eye. In the past year alone, we’ve buried more than five students, all murdered by criminals while law enforcement does nothing George lamented.
The protesters also accused the school management of trying to silence the demonstration. According to one student activist, the Rector allegedly warned the SUG to stop the protest, but the students refused, vowing to continue until their demands are met.
Our lives are in danger while the police focus on extorting poor students instead of protecting us. We will not be silenced,” a protester declared.
Meanwhile, the state police command is scrambling to control the fallout, with spokesperson DSP Timfon John claiming that the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, has summoned student leaders for an emergency meeting.
There will be no protest. The students at the gate are preparing for a meeting with the Commissioner,” John stated, dismissing the severity of the situation.
However, students insist that the protests will not stop until the government and police take action. With mounting anger, fear, and frustration, the question remains: Will this be another case of ignored cries for justice, or will the authorities finally act?
