UNIZIK Faces Backlash for Charging Graduating Students 20,000 Naira for Taking Pictures at School Gate
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) has been accused of extortion after demanding graduating students pay 20,000 Naira each for taking photos at the school gate.
Mary Nwaeze 
In a surprising move, Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) has come under fire for allegedly forcing its graduating students to pay 20,000 Naira each for taking pictures in front of the school's gate. According to sources made available to MySchoolNews, the school management claims that the charges are for "defacing" the school property. However, students and their families see this as an outright act of extortion.
Allegations of Unjust Charges
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An anonymous source informed MySchoolNews that the students accused of "defacing" the gate are being unjustly treated. The source mentioned that no damage was caused, and taking photos is a typical tradition among graduating students. The source went on to say, "My younger sister is among the students being forced to pay this money. The worst part is that they are supposed to join the list of graduates on May 29, 2024, but their clearance is indefinitely stopped until they pay the said money, which is purely extortion."
The source highlighted the impact of the university's action on families who have worked hard to support their children's education, saying, "I don't even have that money to pay. I trained my sister in school, and I am currently incapacitated, so I'm a direct victim of this."
School Memo and Management Response
MySchoolNews also found a memo signed by the school's management indicating that students from the departments of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Applied Microbiology and Brewery, Applied Chemistry, English Language and Literary Studies, and Music are required to pay 20,000 Naira each for "defacing the school gate." This memo has fueled the belief that the university is extorting its students.
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When the school management was contacted for a comment, a representative declined to speak on the issue, stating she was not authorized to do so. This lack of response has only intensified the anger among students and their families, with many considering alternative ways to celebrate graduation.
Student Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The story has gained significant traction on social media, with many expressing outrage over the school's actions. A common sentiment among students is that graduation should be a time of celebration and accomplishment, not a financial burden imposed by the university.
The situation is still developing, and it's unclear how UNIZIK's management will address the growing backlash. Students and their families are hoping for a resolution that allows graduates to proceed with their plans without facing undue financial stress.
For now, the message from many students is clear: "Stop celebrating graduation at school; just go home and celebrate with your family in peace."
