Obafemi Awolowo University Students Protest Against School Fee Hike on Independence Day

Osun State, Nigeria - Students of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Osun State took to the streets on Independence Day to protest against a recent hike in school fees. The students, who arrived at the university premises in the early hours of Tuesday, carried placards with various slogans expressing their discontent.

The protest, organized by OAU students, was a response to the significant increase in tuition fees that many felt placed a heavy burden on their families. Some of the placards read, "When I dey pay 20k, I dey borrow money. Where you wan make I 90k? #FeeMustFall," "I cannot afford to drop out. #FeeMustFall," "My Mama dey sell Fufu, my papa dey ride Okada," and "Where you won make I see 90k? #FeeMustFall."

The students passionately voiced their demands for a reduction in school fees, emphasizing that education should be a right accessible to all, not a privilege. They argued that a 300% increment in school charges was excessive and would hinder many from pursuing their studies.

The protest garnered significant attention on social media platforms, with many Nigerians joining the conversation. An X (formerly Twitter) user shared a video of the demonstration, stating, "Why celebrate Independence Day when the Educational Sector is Bleeding? 300% increment in our school charges is on the high side. Mr. Minister of Education, Nigeria Federal Government, we call on you all. Education is a right, not a privilege. #FeeMustFall #SaveOAUStudents."

The university administration has yet to release an official response to the students' demands. However, the protest sends a powerful message about the importance of accessible and affordable education, particularly on Nigeria's Independence Day.

As the situation develops, both students and authorities will likely engage in discussions to find a resolution to the fee hike issue.