Chidimma UCHEGBU
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has urged university administrators cross Nigeria to take proactive steps to safeguard property of their schools during the nationwide protest against bad governance.
It also urged students to stay in campus and avoid putting themselves in harm’s way during the protest.
These were contained in a letter to the university administrators across Nigeria titled “Urgent Arrangements for the Security and Safety of University Staff, Students and Property During the Proposed Nationwide Protests”, signed by Chris J. Maiyaki, the Acting Executive Secretary of NUC, which was made available to journalists on Monday.
The statement reads: “The Honourable Minister of Education has directed that the attention of Vice- Chancellors of all Nigerian Universities be formally drawn to the plan by unknown groups to embark on nationwide protests. The Federal Government is not unaware of the right of any Nigerian to peaceful protest, but is concerned about the safety of staff, students and university property should there be any protest action.
“Consequently, the Honourable Minister has directed that Vice-Chancellors of all Nigerian Universities should take pro-active steps to ensure the security and safety of the university community, including staff and students. In addition, Vice- Chancellors are to please issue specific statements to assure staff and students of their safety. It is also advisable that students remain on campus to focus on their academic pursuits so as to avoid exposure to any potential danger during the planned protests.”
