University of Benin Halts Activities
The University of Benin (UNIBEN) management indefinitely shuts down academic activities and instructs students to vacate their hostels immediately. This announcement, made through a circular by the School’s Public Relations Officer, Dr. Benedicta Ehanire, comes in response to intense student protests over electricity rationing and other grievances.
Protests Block Major Highway
On Wednesday, students blocked the Benin-Ore highway, causing severe traffic disruptions and hardship for commuters. The protestors demanded a 24-hour electricity supply and other improvements, stating they would not leave the highway until their demands were met.
Senate Meeting and Management’s Response
In response to the escalating situation, the university’s Senate convened a meeting on Wednesday to discuss possible resolutions. However, when negotiations with the students failed, the management decided to shut down the university. The institution’s Public Relations Officer, Benedicta Ehanire, confirmed this in a statement.
Management’s Justification
Ehanire explained that the students’ demands were considered unrealistic by the Senate, leading to the decision to close the school. She stated, “Following the refusal of students of the University of Benin to shift grounds on their demands for 24-hour supply of electricity and more, the university has shut down academic activities indefinitely.”
Impact of the Shutdown
Non-teaching staff and those on essential duties are not affected by the shutdown. The university has faced a severe electricity crisis due to a bill of over N250 million from the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), which recently disconnected the institution. Previously, the university was paying N80 million, but the increase has led to a blackout and significant hardship for students.
Ongoing Challenges
The prolonged lack of electricity has significantly disrupted campus life, exacerbating tensions between students and management. As the situation develops, it remains uncertain when academic activities will resume and whether the students’ demands will be addressed.
Follow us on Socials: