The Federal Government yesterday ordered the National Universities Commission (NUC), to shut down universities ahead of the forthcoming general elections in Nigeria starting from February 25th.
The NUC, in a letter signed by the Deputy Executive Secretary (Administration), Chris J. Maiyaki, requested the shutdown and suspension of academic activities from Wednesday February 22nd to Tuesday March 14th.
The letter was addressed to Vice Chancellors of universities and directors, and chief executive of inter-university centres.
The letter reads: “In view of the foregoing and concerns expressed on the security of staff, students and properties of our respective institutions, the Honourable Minister of Education, Mal. Adama Adamu has, following extensive consultations with the relevant security agencies, directed that all universities and inter-university centres be shut down and academic activities be suspended between 22 February and 14th March, 2023.”
Stakeholders including Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and the House of Representatives had raised concerns over the possible disenfranchisement of some Nigerian students whose institutions had scheduled examinations through the period of the elections.
…following extensive consultations with the relevant security agencies, directed that all universities and inter-university centres be shut down and academic activities be suspended between 22 February and 14th March, 2023.
