Writing by Aliyu Lawal; Editing by Basirat Memudu
Staff and students of the Federal University of Technology, FUT Minna, Niger state have staged a peaceful protest over the alleged takeover of Bosso Campus by Governor Mohammed Umar Bago.
The protesters who gathered at the Bosso Campus carrying placards calling for transparency, due process and respect for institutional autonomy, also expressed concern that the action could disrupt academic activities and undermine the independence of the university.
They however alleged that the move was initiated without adequate consultation with the university’s management as well as the Governing Council, and called on the Federal Government and other relevant stakeholders to urgently intervene towards clarifying the status of the property.
Student representatives also expressed fears that the development could adversely affect lectures, research activities and ongoing academic programmes in the institution.
They urged the state government to engage the university community in dialogue to prevent further escalation.
Niger State Government is yet to issue an official statement on the allegations.
