Amnesty International Slams UI Over Suspension of Students Who Protested Tuition Hike

Amnesty International has condemned the University of Ibadan for suspending three students over their peaceful protest against a 2024 tuition hike, calling the action unjust, excessive, and a violation of their rights to free expression.

Amnesty International has publicly criticized the University of Ibadan (UI) for suspending three students who participated in protests against a major tuition fee increase in 2024.

The international human rights group called for the immediate reversal of the university’s decision to suspend Ayodele Aduwo, Nice Linus, and Mide Gbadegesin, labeling the punishment as unjust and excessive.

In a statement released on Monday, Amnesty International expressed strong opposition to what it described as ongoing persecution of the students by the university’s administration, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Kayode Adebowale.

“The management of the University of Ibadan must halt all forms of unfair disciplinary procedures against these students,” the organization said. “They have endured nearly a year of unjust hearings for simply voicing their concerns during Nigeria’s worst economic downturn in a generation.”

The university had imposed a four-semester suspension on the students, a move Amnesty International deems a violation of their rights to peaceful protest and freedom of expression.

“No one should be penalized for opposing a fee hike, especially during a severe economic crisis,” the statement added.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, GAZETTE