By Ken Chiwendu
Minister of Education ,Tahir Mamman has advised students in Nigerian universities to remain on campus during the planned nationwide protest.
The Minister, according to a statement signed by Chris Maiyaki, the acting Executive Secretary of the NUC the National Universities Commission (NUC) and addressed to Vice Chancellors of Universities on Monday said the advice was imperative to safeguard the lives of students .
The statement reads:
“The Honourable Minister of Education has directed that the attention of Vice-Chancellors of all Nigerian Universities be formally drawn to the plan by unknown groups to embark on nationwide protests. The Federal Government is not unaware of the right of any Nigerian to peaceful protest, but is concerned about the safety of staff, students, and university property should there be any protest action.
“Consequently, the Honourable Minister has directed that Vice-Chancellors of all Nigerian Universities should take proactive steps to ensure the security and safety of the university community, including staff and students. In addition, Vice-Chancellors are to please issue specific statements to assure staff and students of their safety. It is also advisable that students remain on campus to focus on their academic pursuits to avoid exposure to any potential danger during the planned protests scheduled for August.1-10.,2024.
“Please accept the renewed assurances of my highest considerations and best wishes.”
Some groups are planning a nationwide protest to draw the attention of the Federal Government to the cost of living, inflation and hunger among others in the land
However, the protest under the hashtags,#EndBadGovernance,#Revolution2024″ is being speculated to be in the manner of the recent Kenya uprising and authorities have warned trouble makers to steer clear.
