NANS Urges Federal Government to Intervene in University of Ibadan Fee Hike Controversy

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration to step in and address what it describes as the victimization of students at the University of Ibadan (UI). The plea comes in response to a recent increase in school fees at the institution, which has sparked widespread condemnation among students.

NANS Senate President Afeez Babatunde Akinteye made this appeal in a statement on Wednesday. The controversy erupted after the University of Ibadan raised tuition fees, leading to protests from the student body. Reports indicate that several students were allegedly detained for participating in these demonstrations.

In reaction to the protests, the university announced a three-week break for students, a move Akinteye criticized as an attempt to stifle dissent and undermine the Student Union's efforts. Akinteye urged President Tinubu and other relevant authorities to engage with the university's administration to halt what he calls the unjust treatment of students.

“The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) strongly condemns the oppressive and anti-student actions of the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. K.O. Adebowale,” Akinteye said. He accused Adebowale's administration of prioritizing personal gains over the welfare of students, noting that the fee hike has caused considerable hardship.

Akinteye also praised the Student Union and NELFUND for their financial support to students and called for immediate intervention by the Federal Government and other stakeholders to rectify the situation. He emphasized that the interests of students should take precedence over administrative decisions that adversely affect their well-being.