GLOBAL RIGHTS URGES IMMEDIATE RESCIND OF PLANNED EXPULSION OVER UI PEACEFUL PROTEST 

Global Rights, a prominent non-governmental organization, has urgently called on the University of Ibadan (UI) to rescind its planned expulsion of three students involved in a peaceful protest against a sudden tuition fee hike.

The protest, which took place on May 13, 2024, during the inauguration of the Student Union government, was a response to the fee increase announced by the university’s management. 

The students, Olamide Gbadegeshin, Aduwo Ayodele, and Nice Linus, along with Olorunfemi Adeyeye, were detained by army officers during the demonstration.

In a statement released on Thursday, July 4, 2024, Global Rights emphasized that the students were exercising their civic rights as guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

The organization highlighted that while the protest might have caused some inconvenience, the students’ right to peaceful protest is protected by law.

Global Rights pointed out that peaceful protests by young people have historically been a catalyst for positive social change in democratic societies worldwide. 

The organization urged the university to reconsider its decision, warning that expelling the students would set a negative precedent and hinder the development of civic actors crucial for Nigeria’s democratic growth.

The NGO expressed solidarity with the students and demanded that they be allowed to resume their studies without fear of intimidation or harassment.

Additionally, Global Rights called for a swift and unreserved apology from the security agents who arrested the students and Olorunfemi Adeyeye. The organization urged the University of Ibadan to lead by example, fostering open and robust interactions with students to address their grievances constructively.

By supporting these students’ rights, Global Rights believes that the University of Ibadan can reaffirm its role as a leading educational institution committed to upholding democratic values and supporting Nigeria’s youth in their pursuit of social justice.

Recognizing the university’s need to balance educational standards and economic challenges, Global Rights stressed that the institution should empathize with students’ concerns about affordability and access to quality education.

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