FEES PROTEST: MICHAEL OKPARA UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE, UMUDIKE SHUT DOWN

REPORTER: PEACE AGBO

Academic activities have been suspended at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike following a violent protest by the students over implementation of “no school fees no exam policy” of the institution.

Radio Nigeria gathered that the Institution had before the beginning of 2023/2024 academic session made astronomic increment in the tuition between N80,000.00 and over N120,000.00 depending on the course of study.

Reports also had it that trouble escalated when students were prevented from writing the semester exams for non-compliance with the new policy.

The protest said to have started peacefully later turned violent as students were seen destroying some structures within the school premises.

They also blocked the Umuahia/Ikot-Ekpene expressway as students raised bonfire on the highway causing vehicles to either turn back or divert to adjoining roads.

Regrettably, journalists were also prevented from recording both sound and videos while students also refused to speak with the press.

Reacting to the allegations in an interview with Radio Nigeria, the University Public Relations Officer, Mr. Patrick Opara, said students were duly notified of the tuition increment and the implementation of the policy of “no fees no examination.”

Meanwhile, the University Management has on behalf of the Senate ordered an indefinite close down of the University.

EDITED BY CHUKWUBUIKE MADU