Students from tertiary institutions in Imo State have taken to the streets in protest against the exorbitant cost of living, high fees, subpar education, inadequate infrastructure, deficient facilities, extortion, and intimidation prevalent in their respective institutions.
These students are urging both the Federal and State Governments to cease the frequent hikes in tuition fees and unwarranted extortion through handouts and textbooks. They are appealing for the government to create conducive learning environments and install essential amenities like medical equipment, electricity, and boreholes to enhance the quality of education and uphold moral values.
The protesters, representing students from institutions such as the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), Imo State University Owerri (IMSU), Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education Owerri, Federal Polytechnic Nekede Owerri, and Imo State University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UAES), Umuagwo, Ohaji, also expressed dismay over the high cost of living, school fees, student accommodation, and the general hardship in Imo State. They attributed these challenges to the government’s poor economic policy, inadequate infrastructure, and unemployment.
In addition to their grievances, the students are urging the government to formulate people-oriented policies that alleviate the suffering, hunger, and poverty faced by students. Vice President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Valentine Nzubechi, assured the protesters that both the Federal and State governments would address their concerns and requests to enhance the quality of education.
