By Seyi Babalola
The Honourable Minister of Education, Prof Tahir Mamman, has urged all Nigerian university vice-chancellors to safeguard the security and safety of their staff and students.
Chris Maiyaki, Acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, confirmed this in a statement issued on Monday.
According to the statement, students are required to remain on campus and concentrate on their academic studies to prevent exposure to any potential threat during the scheduled 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 action.
“Consequently, the Honourable Minister has directed that vice-chancellors of all Nigerian universities should take pro-active 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 please accept the renewed assurances of my highest considerations and best wishes,” the statement reads.