ERC Laments Poor Living Conditions of UI Students Despite Fee Hike
The Education Rights Campaign (ERC) has voiced dissatisfaction over the worsening living and learning conditions faced by students at the University of Ibadan (UI), despite a recent increase in tuition fees by the university.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The Education Rights Campaign (ERC) has raised concerns over the deteriorating living and learning conditions of students at the University of Ibadan (UI) in Oyo State, despite a recent hike in tuition fees by the university. In a statement issued by Comrade Akin Paul on behalf of the ERC, the organization expressed disappointment at the lack of improvement in students' welfare following the fee increase implemented by the Prof Adebowale-led university administration.
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The ERC highlighted various challenges faced by students, including erratic electricity supply, inadequate water supply, and poor maintenance of facilities such as toilets and bathrooms. Halls of residence such as Kuti, Mellanby, Bello, and Tedder reportedly suffer from frequent power outages, leaving students in darkness and relying on candlelight for studying. Additionally, the scarcity of water on campus forces students to travel long distances to access basic amenities.
The ERC also expressed concerns about the high level of insecurity across the campus and criticized the silence of the Tobiloba-led students' union in addressing these issues. The group accused the union of collaborating with the university administration to organize events that allegedly prepare students for future fee hikes, instead of advocating for improved living conditions.
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In response to the challenges faced by students, the ERC vehemently opposes any planned fee hikes for the next academic session. The organization argues that previous fee increases have not translated into tangible improvements in students' welfare and calls for a reduction in current fees. Furthermore, the ERC urges the government to increase funding for public universities and implement agreements with academic staff unions to address the funding crisis in higher education.
As the upcoming students' union election approaches, the ERC warns against placing trust in candidates who lack concrete plans to address students' concerns. The organization urges students to mobilize and demand strong leadership that will advocate for their collective interests and resist any attempts to further burden students with additional fee hikes.
The ERC's statement highlights the urgent need for action to improve the living and learning conditions of students at the University of Ibadan. With the support of the student body, the ERC aims to hold university authorities accountable and ensure that students' welfare remains a top priority.
