Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Vice-Chancellor of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, has commended security agencies for the successful rescue of three students who were abducted by gunmen in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, describing the operation as a major victory for the safety and security of the university community. In a statement signed by the university's Public Relations Officer, the Vice-Chancellor expressed deep appreciation to the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his commitment to improving security across the state. The university leadership also praised the Inspector General of Police, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, the Commissioner of Police, the Director of the Department of State Services, local vigilante groups, hunters, and other security personnel for their professionalism and swift response.
The rescued students, identified as Praise Obagbalu, 18; Favour Okoroji, 21; and Balogun Precious, 19, were abducted on Sunday, July 12, 2026, during an attack in the Ujemen G.T. Extension area of Ekpoma. Tragically, a 300-level student of the university, Peter Ekpen Adolor, a 24-year-old undergraduate, was shot dead during the attack while attempting to open the gate of the students' residence to ascertain the situation. The attackers subsequently abducted the three female students and escaped into a nearby forest.
The Edo State Police Command, acting on a distress report received at about 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, immediately ordered the deployment of tactical teams for a joint rescue operation involving the Nigerian Army, the Edo State Security Corps, and local hunters. The coordinated rescue mission, backed by intelligence-led operations and bush-combing exercises, culminated in a fierce exchange of gunfire with the kidnappers at about 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 14, at the kidnappers' hideout in Erah Forest. The superior tactical response of the security operatives forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives and flee. One suspected kidnapper was neutralised during the operation, while another was arrested with gunshot injuries. The three abducted students were rescued unharmed and rushed to the hospital for medical attention.
The police said the operation led to the recovery of three AK-47 rifles, three magazines, 36 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, five mobile phones, two power banks, a charger, a lady's handbag and other incriminating items. The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Monday Agbonika, commended the bravery, professionalism and resilience of personnel of the joint security team, whose collaborative efforts led to the successful operation. He also appreciated the support of the Edo State Government and members of the public for providing timely and credible information that aided the operation.
Speaking to journalists after their rescue, the students said they were held deep inside the forest by their captors, who repeatedly moved them from one location to another while demanding that they contact their relatives to raise ransom. They expressed gratitude to the joint security team, noting that they were rescued without any ransom being paid. The university acknowledged the tireless efforts of the security operatives, noting that the rescued students have been reunited with their families and are receiving the necessary care and support.
Reaffirming AAU's commitment to the safety of students and staff, the Vice-Chancellor assured the university community that management will continue working closely with security agencies to strengthen security measures on and around campus. He also urged students, staff, and residents to remain vigilant, cooperate with security personnel, and promptly report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. The university described the successful rescue as a testament to the effectiveness of collaboration between government, security agencies, and the local community in tackling insecurity. The Police Command expressed condolences to the family of the late Peter Ekpen Adolor, the management of Ambrose Alli University, and the student community over his death.
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