The Minister of Education Tahir Mamman has advised students in Nigerian universities to remain on campus during the planned nationwide protest.
A statement signed by the acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Chris Maiyaki and addressed to Vice-Chancellors of universities on Monday noted that the advice was to avoid risking their lives.
“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 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.
“Please accept the renewed assurances of my highest considerations and best wishes,” the statement read.
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The development comes on the heels of organized a nationwide protest slated for August 1 to 10, 2024.
The planned protest has gained traction on social media, trending under the hashtag ‘#EndBadGovernance.
The presidency and police authorities have since called on youths to shelve the protest.
International communities have also wade into the looming nationwide protest, issuing security alerts to their citizens in Nigeria, warning of potential violence during the planned nationwide protests.
In separate travel advisories, the UK, US and Canada cautioned their citizens to avoid areas where confrontations between security agencies and protesters might occur.
The US Mission in Abuja urged Americans to avoid the rallies, advising them to steer clear of crowds and demonstrations and stay updated via local media.
The alert highlighted the potential for roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations, stating “according to media reports, nationwide protests may occur in Nigeria between July 29th and August 5th, 2024. Based on past occurrences, protests may involve roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations”.
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