1000 Oko Polytechnic Students Take to the Streets Over Imposed Exam Fee
A massive protest involving over 1000 students erupted at Federal Polytechnic, Oko, challenging the imposition of a controversial N5,000 examination fee, sparking widespread calls for transparency and fairness.
Mary Nwaeze 
Federal Polytechnic, Oko, was the site of a monumental protest as more than 1000 students from diverse departments took to the streets to denounce the institution's decision to levy a compulsory N5,000 examination fee. The demonstration, marked by impassioned chants and placards, underscored students' frustration over what they perceive as unjust financial burdens.
Leading the charge against the fee, the Secretary-General of the National Association Of Nigeria Students (NANS) for the South East Zone, emphasized the illegality of the examination fee and demanded transparency regarding its necessity. The uproar among the students reached a crescendo as they voiced their concerns over the sudden imposition of additional financial obligations, particularly amid existing challenges with tuition fees and other expenses.
READ THIS: Oko Graduates Charged to Champion Positive Change and Economic Development in Society
Chukwuebuka Umezula, Vice President of the National Association of Polytechnic Students for the South East, condemned the management's decision and vowed to continue the protest until the fee was rescinded. He highlighted the plight of students and the burden placed on families, urging swift action from authorities to address their grievances.
The protest, which saw students marching from the main gate to administrative buildings and departments, garnered significant attention both locally and nationally. The sheer number of participants underscores the depth of discontentment among the student body and the urgency for resolution.
In response to the uproar, concerned students appealed for intervention from the Federal Ministry of Education, citing the undue financial strain imposed by the examination fee. Meanwhile, the Acting Public Relations Officer of the institution attempted to downplay the situation, promising internal resolution.
As the protest continues to reverberate, it serves as a stark reminder of the power and unity of students in advocating for their rights and demanding accountability from educational institutions.
