Nationwide Protest: FG Directs Vice Chancellors To Secure University Community

By Ayodele Oni

The federal government has placed vice chancellors of universities on alert, ahead of the planned nationwide protest, scheduled to begin on August 1.

In a statement on Monday, titled “Urgent Arrangement For Security and Safety of University staff, students and Property During Proposed Nationwide Protest,” it directed the Vice Chancellors to take proactive actions to safeguard the academic community.

The circular, from the Minister of Education, Prof Tahir Mamman, was passed through the National Universities Commission, (NUC) to respective institutions and signed by the acting Secretary, Chris Maiyaki.

The circular reads “The Federal Ministry of Education has directed that the attention of the Vice Chancellors of all Nigerian Universities  be formally drawn to the plan by unknown groups to embark on nationwide protest.

“The Federal Government is not unaware of the right of any Nigerians to peaceful protest, but is concerned about the safety of staff, students and universities property should there be protest.

“Consequently, the Honourable Minister of Education 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 statement to assure staff  and students of their safety.

“It is also advisable that students remain on campus and focus on their academic pursuits so as to avoid exposure to any potential danger during the planned protest.”