The management of the University of Ibadan (UI) has assured students that their welfare remains a top priority.
The assurance came after a series of demonstrations where students barricaded the main gate of the institution, protesting against what they described as severe hardships on campus.
During a crucial meeting with the university’s management, Bolaji Aweda, the president of the Students’ Union, outlined a list of grievances. These included the rationing of electricity on campus, increased fees, mandatory purchase of handouts and GES textbooks, poor welfare conditions, inadequate attention at the University Health Services (UHS), victimization of students who protested fee hikes earlier in the year, and insufficient security measures for students.
Addressing the concerns, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Professor Peter Olapegba, speaking on behalf of the university’s management, expressed empathy towards the students.
He explained that the institution’s financial constraints significantly hamper its ability to resolve some of these issues. “We are currently paying over N80 million monthly for electricity. If the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) moves us to Band A, our costs will skyrocket to N280 million per month,” Professor Olapegba revealed.
He clarified that the memo which sparked the protest did not originate from the management and reassured students that there were no plans to ration electricity as rumored.
Professor Olapegba further emphasized that the university does not charge tuition fees and that the recent hike in charges aligns with the nation’s current economic realities. He assured that the issue of increased charges would be addressed in the next governing council meeting.
The Deputy VC also strongly condemned the sale of handouts by lecturers, labeling it an illegal act within the University of Ibadan. He urged students to provide evidence if such activities were happening. “UI is committed to improving the living conditions of its students,” he stated, adding that the management is actively seeking donations from alumni, friends, and benefactors to enhance student welfare.
On the issue of alleged victimization of students who protested earlier,
Professor Olapegba clarified, “The UI has not victimized any students. We have only asked the affected students to explain their actions in accordance with the university’s rules and regulations.”
Addressing concerns about campus security, he acknowledged that security is a national issue but assured students that the university is doing its utmost to secure lives and properties on campus. He appealed to the students for cooperation, urging them to work with the management to create a conducive environment for everyone.
Professor Olapegba praised the students for maintaining a peaceful protest and preventing it from being hijacked by hoodlums. He assured them that the management would do its best to address the issues raised within the limits of available resources.
The university’s commitment to student welfare and the open dialogue between management and students mark a positive step towards resolving the ongoing grievances and ensuring a better campus experience for all.
