Amnesty International has issued a call to the University of Ibadan, urging them to reconsider their plans to expel three students who participated in protests against a recent steep fee hike. The students, identified as Olamide Gbadegeshin, Aduwo Olayinka, and Nice Linus, were summoned before a disciplinary committee, a move seen by critics as an attempt to silence dissent.
The university’s decision to escalate disciplinary measures amidst what has been described as the worst economic crisis in recent history has drawn widespread condemnation. Many universities across the country have raised fees by as much as 1000%, exacerbating the challenges faced by students already struggling to afford education.
“Universities should be avenues for fostering education, not platforms for stifling legitimate protest,” remarked Amnesty International spokesperson in response to the university’s actions. The organization emphasized that such punitive measures undermine the right to quality education and called for a reconsideration of the university’s stance.
The fee increases have already forced numerous students to withdraw from their studies, further limiting access to higher education and deepening socioeconomic inequalities. Amnesty International’s appeal underscores the importance of upholding human rights, including the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, particularly in times of economic hardship.
The University of Ibadan has yet to respond to Amnesty International’s call.
