The University of Benin (UNIBEN) has suspended the students’ union government indefinitely, effective from Monday, April 29, 2024. This decision was announced in a letter to the university community by the Registrar, Mr. Ademola Bobola, on Tuesday in Benin.
Reason for Suspension
The suspension is connected to an incident at the university’s Senior Staff Club on April 12, where students disrupted an interactive session with the Edo State governorship candidate of Labour Party, Olumide Akpata. The students allegedly behaved unruly, rough-handling several staff members, including an ASUU member who was reportedly beaten.
Investigation and Caretaker Committee
Following the incident, the university management set up a panel of enquiry to investigate the matter. Meanwhile, a caretaker committee comprising representatives from faculties, schools, and institutes has been established to coordinate student activities during the suspension period.
Handover of Union Property
All officers of the Students’ Union are required to hand over union property in their possession to the Dean, Students’ Affairs, by 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday.
Management’s Directive
The Vice Chancellor’s directive has been communicated to the university community, and compliance is expected from the erstwhile union officers. The suspension is indefinite, pending the outcome of the investigation and further decisions by the university management.
