Unilag warns against planned student protest, says it may lead to school closure

Against the proposed student protest against the hike in fees, the authorities of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) have warned those behind the call that a protest with disruptive effects may result in the closure of the institution.

The university management in a statement, disclosed that although it is not against lawful and peaceful protests by students or other law-abiding citizens or groups of people, it will not hesitate to take necessary legal actions to protect the lives and property of the institution.

The statement reads: “The University of Lagos management notes with concern the call for protest on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, over the review of the varsity’s obligatory charges, by a group of people who are not students of the university.

“Although the university is not against lawful and peaceful protests by students or other law-abiding citizens or groups of people, management will not hesitate to take necessary legitimate steps to protect the lives and property of the institution from individuals or groups masquerading as defenders of students’ rights and interest, in a bid to cause civil unrest,” the statement reads.

“In light of the foregoing, the university management pointed out the following: that the planned protest which is being organised by some individuals claiming to be students of the institution while students are on vacation could easily be hijacked by unscrupulous elements.

“And that in conjunction with various security agencies, events are being monitored as they unfold, and decisive actions would be taken to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of all staff and bonafide residents on campus,” the statement said

Aggrieved students were advised to convey their grievances to the management through appropriate channels, and avoid being used as an instrument of destruction.

“Consequently, the university management directed that all grievances should be channeled through the dean of student affairs (DSA) who is officially empowered to interact with students.

“Students and other members of the university community are advised not to allow anyone or group to use them as an instrument of destruction of the university, or country,” the statement said.

In July 2023 Unilag management increased fees from N19,000 to N190,250, for students studying medicine, while for courses that require laboratory and studio, the students were to pay N140,250.

The management cited “prevailing economic realities” as the reason for the hike.