By David Olatunji
In June 2023, the Federal Government of Nigeria, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, announced its decision to stop funding higher education, contradicting Section 18 of Nigeria’s Constitution.
This decision has granted full autonomy to tertiary institutions, including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of educati0pp lol l) the lon, to explore alternative means of funding their operations.
Following this, the University of Ibadan, on April 11, 2024, directed new students to pay significantly increased tuition fees ranging from ₦203,000 to ₦372,000, depending on their faculties. Returning students were also subject to these hikes, sparking protests within the university.
Protests Erupt Against the Fee Hike
On July 16 and 17, 2024, students of the University of Ibadan organized congresses and protests against the fee hike, demanding its reversal.
The situation escalated further on August 29, 2024, when another protest broke out after the Governing Council of the university, chaired by former Osun State Governor Chief Bisi Akande, approved the fee increment and set a strict deadline for payment.
The students rejected the deadline and pledged to continue protesting until their demands were met.
This intense protest led to a complete shutdown of the school for three weeks, starting from August 31, 2024.
Students Speak Out Against Shutdown
Nice Linus, a 300-level student, condemned the university management’s decision to shut down the school and order students to vacate the campus within a few hours.
“We know this is a ploy to suppress student voices. How can they ask us to leave the campus by 2 PM after announcing it at 8 AM? This is a premier university that should set an example for others. With students from all over Nigeria facing insecurity and economic challenges, this decision is an act of wickedness,” Nice told Harbinger.
Similarly, Oluwadamilare Adewumi, a 400-level student, criticized the internal memo issued on the morning of August 31, 2024.
“They are not considerate. Students come from all over the country, and this decision is irrational. The fee hike doesn’t reflect any improvements in education or facilities, so why should we pay?” he argued.
Students Leaders Fail us- Students
According to Nice Linus, the UI Student Union (UI SU) led by Aweda Bolaji has failed to represent the students’ interests.
“At first, we thought it was fear, but now it’s clear it’s arrogance, ignorance, and incompetence. They say what we want to hear but act against us. The past congresses have demanded a complete reversal of the fees, but they have not initiated any protest. Students have had to take matters into their own hands,” she said. Ok
Oluwadamilare Adewumi echoed these sentiments, accusing the Student Union of undermining the protest.
“They are not for the students. UI SU has frustrated the struggle and underrepresented us. They avoid involvement in agitations, and students have had to force their hand before any protest could happen,” he added.
Continuous Struggle: Call for Intervention
As the unexpected break continues for students, questions remain about whether the university management will address their concerns. Despite the challenges, students are determined to press on with their demands.
“We are not giving in to the school management’s irresponsibility. We won’t let the government’s failures rob us of our future. We call on parents, staff unions, and the general public to join our struggle,” Nice Linus stated.
Oluwadamilare Adewumi also encouraged his fellow students not to lose hope.
“UI students should remain united, even though the union leadership is not supporting us. We also hope the Federal Government will reconsider and start funding education again,” he said.
