Governor's Convoy Attacked by MAPOLY Students Amidst Tuition Fee Protest

 

Ogun Deputy Governor's Convoy Attacked by MAPOLY Students Amidst Tuition Fee Protest

In a dramatic turn of events on January 15, 2025, the convoy of Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, was attacked by irate students from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY) in Abeokuta. The students, protesting against a recent hike in tuition fees, blocked the Deputy Governor's path, leading to a tense standoff that underscores the escalating unrest within the state's educational sector.

The Incident Unfolds

Deputy Governor Salako-Oyedele was en route to the 35 Artillery Brigade Alamala in Abeokuta to represent Governor Dapo Abiodun at the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day reception.As her convoy navigated through the city, it encountered a large group of MAPOLY students wielding sticks and other objects, expressing their dissatisfaction over increased tuition fees.

Upon recognizing the Deputy Governor's convoy, the protesters intensified their actions, blocking the vehicles and causing damage to some.In response, the convoy made a strategic retreat to avoid further escalation, allowing the Deputy Governor to proceed to her official duties later.

Students' Grievances

The protest was organized by MAPOLY students who have been vocal about the recent increase in tuition fees, which they argue places an undue financial burden on them and their families.The students demand a reversal of the fee hike and a dialogue with state authorities to address their concerns.

Comrade Adeyanju Francis, Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), clarified that the protest was intended to be peaceful.He stated that the students had gathered in anticipation, mistakenly believing that the Deputy Governor would address their grievances.Francis emphasized that the demonstration was conducted under the supervision of law enforcement to maintain order.

Government's Response

The Ogun State government, through the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information and Strategy, Mr. Kayode Akinmade, acknowledged the incident. He noted that while the students' actions led to vehicular obstruction and damage to security vehicles, the Deputy Governor's decision to retreat was to prevent the situation from escalating.

This incident is part of a series of protests by students in Ogun State.Recently, students from Gateway Polytechnic (ICT), Sapaade, have also expressed concerns over security issues following attacks by armed robbers, resulting in casualties among the student community.

Moving Forward

The confrontation between MAPOLY students and the Deputy Governor's convoy highlights the growing tension between students and state authorities in Ogun State.It underscores the urgent need for open dialogue to address the students' concerns and find a resolution that ensures the safety and well-being of all parties involved.

As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the state government will respond to the students' demands and what measures will be implemented to prevent future confrontations.