NANS gives UNILAG 48 hours to reverse school fees hike

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued an ultimatum to the University of Lagos (UNILAG) management, demanding the reversal of increased school fees and refunds for students who have already paid. This announcement was made during a press conference held at the International Press Centre in Lagos in response to the disruption of a peaceful student protest by the police at UNILAG.

In a joint statement signed by NANS officials, the association commended the students who participated in the protest and expressed support for their courageous actions. They also condemned the police’s interference with the peaceful gathering of students and emphasized the importance of the right to peaceful assembly and association as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.

NANS explained that their decision to protest the fee hike came after the UNILAG management failed to honor an agreement reached with the students. According to NANS, the Vice Chancellor had assured them that the fees would be reversed to the initial price and reviewed through a joint committee of students and university staff. However, the VC did not follow through on this commitment and instead collaborated with the Commissioner of Police to suppress the student protest.

As part of their resolutions, NANS demanded the immediate reversal of the fees as agreed upon and the refund of fees paid by students within 48 hours. They also called for mobilization and further protests if the UNILAG management did not comply.

Additionally, NANS warned all higher education institutions and Unity Schools not to increase school fees, and they emphasized their campaign against fee hikes with the hashtag #FeesMustFall.

The association expressed gratitude for the solidarity and support received from various quarters, including student unions, civil society, and the public. They emphasized the rise of a new student movement and called for the protection of the right to education.