Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, has advised university students to remain on campus during the upcoming nationwide rallies. The National Universities Commission (NUC) issued a statement on Monday, emphasizing the importance of safety and cautioning against potential risks.
The NUC’s interim executive secretary, Chris Maiyaki, communicated the directive to university Vice-Chancellors. “The Honourable Minister of Education has directed that Vice-Chancellors of all Nigerian Universities be formally informed about the plans by unknown groups to embark on nationwide protests,” the statement read. “While the Federal Government recognizes the right of Nigerians to peaceful protest, it is concerned about the safety of staff, students, and university property.”
In response to these concerns, Vice-Chancellors have been instructed to take proactive measures to ensure the security of their campus communities. They are also encouraged to issue statements reassuring staff and students of their safety. Additionally, students are advised to stay on campus and focus on their academic activities to avoid exposure to potential dangers during the protests.
This advisory follows the announcement of a planned nationwide demonstration, scheduled to take place from August 1 to August 10, 2024. The protest, gaining traction under the hashtag #EndBadGovernance on social media, has prompted the president and law enforcement officials to call for its cessation, urging young people to reconsider their participation.
The government’s call for caution highlights the delicate balance between supporting the right to protest and ensuring the safety and security of the university community during these uncertain times.
