UI Students Protest Against Fee Hike, Demand Immediate Reversal

The University of Ibadan (UI) witnessed a student protest against a recent school fees increase approved by the institution's governing council.

The Students' Union, led by President Bolaji Aweda, Vice-President Bolutife Aboderin, and Secretary Daniel Elemide, organized an overnight demonstration from 10:20 pm to 2 am to voice their disapproval. "We reject the decision made by the council. We are embarking on a boycott of classes until our demands are fulfilled," stated the union leaders in a firm declaration.

They demanded an immediate reversal of the fee hike and insisted that the school fees portal be shut down within 24 hours until their demands were met.

The fee increment affects students from 100 to 400 level, with a strict payment deadline set by the council.

In response to the protest, the union leaders urged students to mobilize on social media using hashtags #UIFEESMUSTFALL and #SAVEUITES to amplify their cause.

The governing council had initially suspended the deadline for fee payment following a protest in July. However, they have now reinstated it, emphasizing the availability of financial aid options such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and various scholarships to assist indigent students. "Council equally directed that students be encouraged to take advantage of the students’ loan fund (NELFUND) and sundry scholarships instituted by the University and other well-meaning philanthropists, to cater for indigent students," read a statement from the council.