Students Clash with Authorities In Akwa Ibom, Demand End To Police Brutality And Heightened Insecurity

Led by the Student Union Government (SUG) President, Geoffrey George, the protesters gathered at the school’s main gate around 8:15 a.m., chanting solidarity songs and holding placards with messages such as “End Police Brutality Now,” “Protect, Save, Don’t Abuse,” and “This Extortion Must Stop.”

Speaking to reporters, George highlighted the challenges students face due to harassment from both the police and criminals in the area. He cited a recent incident in which a video circulated on social media showing a student being beaten and dragged by police officers.

He also raised concerns about the frequent extortion of students by the police in Ikot Ekpene, noting that many students feel unsafe, especially those living in surrounding communities. “In the past year alone, more than five students have been killed by criminals who broke into their homes, stole their belongings, and murdered them while the police turned a blind eye,” George said.

One of the student activists, speaking anonymously, emphasized that the protest would continue until action is taken by the government. “The Rector met with the SUG executives this morning and urged us to call off the protest, but we won’t back down. Our students are in danger, and the world needs to see that the police are not protecting us—they’re extorting money from us while our colleagues die,” the activist declared.

In response, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, confirmed that the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, had invited the students for a meeting to discuss their concerns. “The Commissioner of Police has arranged a meeting with the students this morning to address the issues. The students seen at the school gate were preparing for the meeting, and the protest will not continue,” John stated.