..says, “We Are Not the Headquarters of the Student Union Senate”
Okitipupa (9News Nigeria)- In a recent statement, the management of OAUSTECH University has officially distanced itself from a planned nationwide strike organized by the Student Union Senate, asserting that it is not the headquarters for this initiative. This clarification comes in response to growing concerns among students and faculty regarding the implications of the proposed protest.
The university’s administration emphasized that while they support students’ rights to voice their concerns, they do not endorse the planned strike and are not affiliated with the individuals leading the movement. This announcement aims to reassure the university community that OAUSTECH is committed to maintaining academic stability and fostering a conducive learning environment.
“OAUSTECH University respects the democratic processes of its students, but we must clarify our position. We are not involved in the leadership of this protest and urge our students to consider the impact of a strike on their education,” said the university’s Vice-Chancellor.
A letter recently surfaced on social media declaring that the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) will embark on a nationwide strike, with the letter stating that NANS has declared a nationwide shutdown for September 15.
According to the letter, which carried the OAUSTECH Student Union Senate President’s office address, the student group called for an immediate reversal of the fuel price hike, citing the hardship it imposes on citizens. They also demanded the removal of Mele Kyari as NNPC Director General.
In the notice signed by NANS Senate President Okunomo Henry Adewumi, the organization vowed to occupy major cities across Nigeria on the designated date, assuring the public that the protests will be peaceful and lawful.
“We write to notify you of an impending massive shutdown of all major cities in Nigeria, effective September 15, 2024, in protest of the recent hike in fuel prices and the gross incompetence of the NNPC Director General, Mele Kyari,” the notice states.
“We shall not be silenced, and we shall not be intimidated. We shall rise in unison to demand a better deal for Nigerian students and the masses.”
The planned nationwide strike reportedly aims to address various grievances, including demands for better funding for education and improved welfare for students. While the university acknowledges these issues, it calls for dialogue rather than disruption.
Students at OAUSTECH have expressed mixed reactions to the university’s stance. Some support the administration’s decision to remain neutral, while others feel that the university should advocate for student rights more actively.
Meanwhile, OAUSTECH University has urged students to engage in constructive discussions rather than resorting to protests that could jeopardize their academic progress.
