By Charles Maduka
What began as a peaceful demonstration by youth groups in Ondo State on April 9 2025, has resulted in a landmark victory in court, leading to the release of three detained youth leaders: Adediran Gabriel, Yaya Bisola, and Akeju Blessing James. The leaders of the Akoko Youth Forum, were arrested and remanded following a confrontation with the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Kayode Ajulo.
According to the Ondo State Youth Network (OSYN), the youths were unlawfully arrested and detained on March 28, 2025, on the orders of the Attorney General. In response, members of OSYN, the Akoko Youth Forum, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), and other student groups staged a peaceful protest in Akure, demanding the immediate release of the detained activists.
The protest prompted swift reactions from various stakeholders. The Attorney General reportedly requested that the previously adjourned case, which was initially scheduled for April 16, be heard on April 10. In a ruling delivered today, the court dismissed the application to remand the three youth leaders, describing it as baseless and lacking merit.
With the dismissal of the charges, the youth leaders were released on bail and have since reunited with their supporters.
In a statement released today by the Ondo State Youth Network (OSYN), titled “ONDO YOUTHS VINDICATED AS COURT DISMISSES REMAND APPLICATION – OSYN CALLS FOR FOCUS ON DEVELOPMENT, NOT OPPRESSION” and signed by its public relations officer, Christopher Olusa, they announced the release of their members.
“The Ondo State Youth Network (OSYN) is pleased to announce the release of detained youth leaders Adediran Gabriel, Yaya Bisola, and Akeju Blessing James — executives of the Akoko Youth Forum — following today’s court ruling which dismissed the application for their remand, describing it as *lacking in merit,
This marks a major victory in the ongoing struggle against political intimidation and institutional oppression in the state. We celebrate this judgment as a sign that justice — though delayed — is still possible when the people unite,” the post red in part.
Comrade Afe Ezekiel, the Coordinator of OSYN, praised the solidarity shown by the youth. “I want to thank members of OSYN, Akoko Youth Forum, NANS, and other student bodies for joining in this struggle. I also thank the Deputy Governor who intervened last night and assured us of the release of our comrades today,” he said.
This development marks a significant win for youth advocacy in Ondo State, with OSYN emphasizing that the law must never be used as a tool of oppression. The organization also called on Barr. Kayode Ajulo to reflect on his use of public office and urged government officials to prioritize development and security over the silencing of dissenting voices.
The Ondo State Youth Network reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for justice, development, and the empowerment of young people across the state.
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