NUC: FG worried about potential danger for students in anti-inflation protest

The National Universities Commission (NUC) says the federal government is concerned about the potential danger for students, staff, and public property in the planned August 1 protest.

The commission said the education ministry has directed vice-chancellors nationwide to address their campus communities on safety.

Safety concerns ahead of an imminent nationwide anti-inflation protest have been the subject of media discourse over the last week.

The protest, which is themed “End Bad Governance in Nigeria”, is planned for August 1 to 10.

The 10-day demonstration, groups say, aims to oppose economic hardship and the rising cost of living affecting Nigerian citizens.

In a memo seen by TheCable, Chris Maiyaki, the executive secretary of the NUC, asked university vice-chancellors to advise their campus communities on safety.

He recommended that students “remain on campus” and focus on their academic pursuits “to avoid exposure to any potential danger”.

“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,” Maiyaki said.

“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 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 statements to assure staff and students of their safety.

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