The Education Rights Campaign (ERC) has strongly condemned the suspension of two University of Ibadan (UI) students, calling for their immediate and unconditional reinstatement. The students—Aduwo Ayodele, a 400-level History undergraduate, and Mide Gbadegbesin, a 700-level postgraduate student—were suspended for four semesters over their alleged roles in leading protests against recent tuition hikes.
In a statement signed by Ogunjimi Isaac, Deputy National Coordinator, and Adaramoye Michael Lenin, National Mobilisation Officer of ERC, the group described the disciplinary action as “unjust” and part of a broader attempt by the university administration to silence dissent on campus.
ERC Accuses University of Ibadan of Repression and Rights Violations
According to ERC, the suspensions were executed by the university’s Central Students Disciplinary Committee without granting the affected students a fair hearing, violating principles of justice and due process. The group also accused UI Vice-Chancellor Professor Kayode Adebowale of targeting student activists and undermining democratic principles within the institution.
“The university is clearly clamping down on students who dare to oppose the commercialisation of education,” the ERC said. “This is not just an attack on Aduwo and Gbadegbesin, but a threat to the right of every Nigerian student to affordable and quality education.”
Controversial Nullification of Student Election Also Criticized
ERC also condemned the university’s decision to annul the electoral victory of Linus Nice, a 400-level Law student, who won a parliamentary seat in the Students’ Union elections. Despite receiving the highest number of votes, her win was voided by school authorities an action the group described as anti-democratic and vindictive.
Call to Action for Students, Unions, and Civil Society
The group urged the Students’ Union at UI to break ties with the university management and stand firmly in defense of student rights and welfare. They also called on Nigerian students, academic unions, and civil society organisations to unite in protest against what they termed “systemic repression” and fee exploitation.
“The ERC is calling on all stakeholders—students, labour unions, and human rights groups—to stand with Aduwo, Gbadegbesin, and Linus Nice. The university must reverse its suspension orders and restore democratic governance on campus,” the statement read.
Demand for Reversal of Fee Hike and Respect for Student Rights
ERC reiterated its demand for the reversal of the increased school fees at UI, describing them as unaffordable for the majority of Nigerian students. The organisation warned that the continued silencing of activists is part of a national crisis facing public education, where rising costs and shrinking freedoms threaten access and equity.
As tension continues to build, the spotlight remains on the University of Ibadan’s management, with mounting pressure from rights groups and student bodies demanding justice, accountability, and a return to democratic engagement on campus.