Ondo Assembly condemns killing of AAUA students

By Boye Oyeyemi –

The Ondo State House of Assembly has condemned the repeated killings of students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), by suspected criminal elements within the institution’s host community.

The issue was raised during plenary on Tuesday as a matter of urgent public importance, with lawmakers unanimously calling on community members and security agencies to take urgent action against the rising insecurity.

Raising the motion, Hon. Tope Agbulu (Akoko South-West II – PDP), who represents the area, decried the growing atmosphere of fear among students and residents following recent incidents of violence.

He noted that Akungba-Akoko, once known as a peaceful and student-friendly town, is witnessing a disturbing rise in criminal activities targeting students, allegedly by a few violent elements from the community.

Agbulu warned that if the situation is not promptly addressed, it could escalate into a full-blown crisis, including possible student retaliation, mass exodus, and the collapse of academic activities.

While clarifying that the perpetrators do not represent the character of Akungba indigenes, he lamented the damage done to the town’s image and its reputation as an academic hub.

The lawmaker urged the state government and security agencies to thoroughly investigate the killings, arrest the culprits, and restore calm to the area.

He further appealed to the Assembly to demand justice and ensure that Akungba remains a safe space for learning, not a breeding ground for violence and bloodshed.