OAU students insist on reversal of fees, demand opening of institution

THE Students’ Union Government, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, has demanded the re-opening of the institution and insisted on total reversal of the over 200 per cent increase in the tuition fee of the institution, approved by the University Senate on May 6.

In a press statement signed by thePublic Relations Officer, Secretary-General and the President Bamidele Oludare, Shittu Olatayo and Ibikunle Isaac, respectively. The statement affirmed that despite the fact the school management had engaged on propaganda against the students community over the issue, the union is undeterred on their request of surging ahead with their request.

“We demand a total reversal of these fees as the rate of stealing has sky-rocketed on campus, finalists are being made to pay under duress for fear of not having elective courses to register or not getting accommodation. Our security report files are increasing daily and the management said that 97 per cent of parents had paid the money when only 22 per cent privileged few and those that can borrow have paid in reality.

“Members of the public should not be deceived by this propaganda, which is built on lies and distortion of obvious truth. In reality, the closure of the university is intended to break the resistance of students against an astronomic, inconsiderate increment in fee. This closure threatens the democratic advancement of the Nigerian society, and indeed, is a militaristic relic haunting the voice of the majority, harmless and poor citizens. Our union condemns, in strong terms, this vicious closure and we demand for immediate reopening of the university.”

The statement revealed that the decision was reached after a congress of the students last Wednesday and decided that there is no going back on their decision. These were stated as: “That on total reversal we stand. That there should be an upward funding of education by the Federal Government. That all charges against indicted student activists be withdrawn.

That a non-victimization policy be entrenched by the management.”