University of Ibadan students have initiated a protest to express their discontent over two main issues: the implementation of a 10-hour daily electricity supply schedule on campus and an increase in tuition fees.
The protest began on Tuesday and has continued into Wednesday, with students displaying placards at the university gate.
The cause of the protest stems from an internal memo issued by O.A. Adetolu, Director of the Works and Maintenance Department, which instructed rationing of electricity to 10 hours daily. The schedule divides the supply into daytime (8 am – 2 pm) and nighttime (10 pm – 2 am) periods.
Aweda Bolaji, the Students’ Union President, criticized these measures as unjust and insensitive. He emphasized the hardship caused by limiting students’ access to electricity in a modern institution.
Bolaji called for a nonviolent protest against what he perceives as injustices perpetrated by both the government and university management.
In response to the grievances, Bolaji demanded the reversal of the new electricity schedule and the tuition fee increase. He announced plans for a mass action on July 17, 2024, which includes suspending lectures and transportation within the school premises. The protest will commence at 5 am, supported by union resources such as the Aluta Jet and Public Address System.
Furthermore, Bolaji condemned the alleged victimization of three students who participated in a peaceful protest on May 13, 2024, and called for an end to their mistreatment.
