The University of Benin (UNIBEN) has indefinitely suspended academic activities, citing students’ persistent protests and refusal to compromise on their demands. According to a statement from the university’s Public Relations Officer, Dr. Benedicta Ehanire, the decision was made due to the students’ adamant stance.
The protests, which saw students blocking the Benin-Ore Highway, were sparked by weeks of power outages on campus. The students, just two weeks away from their first semester examinations, expressed frustration over the severe disruption to their studies caused by the lack of electricity.
Among their demands was a reduction in transport fares charged by the UNIBEN shuttle service, which had recently been increased starting July 1. The university had been grappling with blackout issues following a dispute with the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) over escalated electricity bills.
The monthly electricity bill reportedly surged from about N80 million to between N200 million and N280 million, prompting UNIBEN to rely extensively on generators and ration power across its campuses and hostels.
Despite heavy rainfall during the protests, students remained resolute in their demands. However, the university deemed their request for uninterrupted 24-hour electricity supply as impractical and unrealistic, leading to the decision to shut down academic operations indefinitely.
In compliance with the closure notice issued by the university, students have been instructed to vacate the hostels immediately, while all university departments and units are urged to adhere to the directive.
