On March 17, 2025, police fired tear gas at students from Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic who were protesting at the university’s main gate.

The students were protesting against insecurity in the region and alleged police extortion and brutality. During the protest, they displayed placards with various statements, including, “end police brutality now,” “protect, save, don’t abuse,” and “this extortion must stop.” A video posted on Facebook, shows protesters running in the street away from the tear gas.

Scholars at Risk is concerned about the use of force during a student protest. While state authorities have the responsibility to maintain order and prevent disruption, they must refrain from the disproportionate use of force and endangerment of civilians and must respect the right to freedom of association and freedom of expression. Students must refrain from violence, especially on campus, and also respect the right to freedom of association and freedom of expression. Such actions, beyond harming the immediate victims, have a chilling effect on academic freedom.

Sources:
*SAR identified this incident in data made publicly available by the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED)
https://dailypost.ng/2025/03/17/akwa-poly-students-protest-alleged-insecurity-police-brutality/
https://punchng.com/aibom-poly-students-protest-insecurity-police-brutality/
https://dailypost.ng/2025/03/18/cp-orders-probe-into-alleged-police-brutality-extortion-on-akwa-poly-students/
https://www.nigerianeye.com/2025/03/akwa-poly-students-protest-alleged.html
https://www.facebook.com/wizzymondo/videos/akwa-ibom-state-polytechnic-students-went-out-for-a-peaceful-protest-to-end-the-/673075725094888/