Following the planned nationwide protest for Nigerians over the recent rate of hunger, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, has urged students in Nigerian universities to remain on campus during the protest.
The minister, through the acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Chris Maiyaki, made this known in a letter addressed to Vice-Chancellors of universities.
Recall that some activists have proposed a nationwide protest slated for August 1 to 10, 2024 which has gained traction on socials with the hashtags ‘#EndBadGovernance,’ ‘#TinubuMustGo,’ and ‘#Revolution2024.’
The presidency, police authorities and clerics have called on youths to abandon the plan.
The minister in the letter wrote, “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.
“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."