Concerned Students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, have issued a 7-day ultimatum to the institution’s management, demanding an immediate reversal of the recent 180% increase in school fees. They warned that failure to address the issue could lead to serious consequences, calling on authorities and well-meaning Nigerians to intervene before the situation escalates.
According to the students, the sharp fee hike has already forced many learners to withdraw—not due to academic challenges, but because they simply cannot afford the new charges. They questioned the rationale behind such a drastic increase without proper consultation, especially given the current economic hardship facing the country.
In a statement, the students expressed deep frustration:
> “We, the Concerned Students of The Polytechnic Ibadan, are alarmed and disappointed by the sudden astronomical increase in school fees—almost 180%—affecting HND2 and ND2 students. This unjustifiable hike has placed an unbearable burden on us and our families during a time when many are barely managing to survive.”
They also noted that even students eligible for the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) are reluctant to apply, fearing long-term debt that could overwhelm them after graduation.
> “Is this the price we must pay for seeking education?” they asked.
The students further criticized the Students’ Union Government (SUG) for what they described as silence and inaction.
> “You were elected to protect students’ interests. Why then are you afraid to speak up? Why carry the title of ‘comrade’ if you cannot stand for the very people who entrusted you with leadership?”
Issuing a joint ultimatum to both management and the SUG, the students demanded an immediate review of the fee increment.
> “Address this issue, or we will be forced to take matters into our own hands. We are not afraid. We will not be silenced. Education is our right, not a privilege. If we must fight for our future, we will—because our future depends on it.”
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