Students of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, in Ikot Ekpene, staged a protest on Monday over alleged police harassment and rising insecurity around the campus.
The demonstration, led by the Student Union President, Geoffrey George, saw students block the main gate while holding placards with messages like “End police brutality now,” “Protect, save, don’t abuse,” and “This extortion must stop.”
Addressing reporters, George condemned the increasing presence of hoodlums in the area and accused police officers of worsening the situation through harassment and extortion.
He said rather than providing safety, the police had become a source of fear for students.
He referenced a recent viral video showing a student being beaten and dragged by officers, describing it as one of many incidents of abuse. “Our students are routinely harassed and extorted by policemen in Ikot Ekpene.
Many no longer feel safe, especially those living in nearby communities,” he said. “Students are also being robbed and assaulted by criminals—this cannot continue.”
In response, Akwa Ibom police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, said the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, had invited student leaders to a meeting to address their concerns.