#FeesMustFall: University Of Ibadan Issues Query To Students Activists, Threatens To Expel Them For Peaceful Protest
The University of Ibadan (UI) has taken action against four student activists who protested against a significant increase in school fees, threatening to expel them. The activists, Aduwo Ayedele and Olamide Ghadegesin Iyanuoluwa, along with two others, raised placards during a ceremony for the newly elected Student Union executives, expressing their grievances over the fee hike from N20,000 to N400,000.
Letters of query were issued to the students, giving them 48 hours to respond to the allegations of disrupting the ceremony and engaging in unruly behavior. The letters, signed by the Deputy Registrar (Students), warned that failure to respond could lead to automatic suspension of their studentship.
The university accused the students of gross misconduct and urged them to justify their actions or face disciplinary measures. The activists, however, vowed not to be intimidated, asserting their right to peaceful protest against unjust treatment of Nigerian students.
In response to the university’s actions, the students reiterated their determination to continue their struggle for justice, indicating their readiness for mass actions. They expressed solidarity with the #FeesMustFall movement and called for support in their fight against oppressive fee policies.
The university’s decision to issue queries and threaten expulsion highlights the ongoing tensions between students and authorities over fee increases and the exercise of fundamental rights. The students’ defiance reflects their commitment to challenging injustice and advocating for the welfare of their fellow students.
Despite the university’s attempts to silence dissent, the activists remain steadfast in their belief in the necessity of their protest. They call on supporters to join them in their quest for change and urge the university to address their concerns through dialogue and genuine engagement.
Overall, the incident underscores the broader issues surrounding education affordability and student activism in Nigeria, highlighting the need for constructive dialogue and inclusive decision-making processes to address grievances and ensure the rights and welfare of students are upheld.
SaharaReporters
