NANS Urges FG to Intervene as Michael Opara University Withholds Exams Over Unpaid Fees

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called upon the federal government to intervene in the ongoing issue at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), where the management has decided to withhold exams from students who have not fully paid their school fees.

In a statement issued by NANS President, Lucky Emonefe, the student body expressed deep concern over the decision, highlighting the financial challenges many students and their families are currently facing. Emonefe emphasized the importance of equal access to education and urged MOUAU's management to reconsider their stance.

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The policy, according to NANS, not only jeopardizes the academic future of affected students but also contradicts the principles of fairness and inclusivity in education. The association called on the Minister of Education to ensure that all tertiary institutions across the country adhere to fair and inclusive policies regarding school fees and examinations.

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NANS emphasized that education is a fundamental right and every student should have the opportunity to excel academically regardless of their financial situation. Imposing such conditions during exams, the statement noted, not only undermines fairness but also obstructs the goal of providing quality education.

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The call from NANS comes amidst growing concerns about fee hikes and unfair policies in tertiary institutions across Nigeria. The student body urged the federal government to take swift action to prevent further exacerbation of these issues, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the educational rights of all students.