The Socialist Workers League (SWL) stands in solidarity with the students of the University of Jos who are raising their voices in the #FeesMustFall protests. We also reaffirm our support to the “Protest-a-thon” initiative by the students of the University of Lagos (UNILAG). Together, we champion the call for accessible education and justice.
The #FeesMustFall movement at the University of Jos against an increase of almost 300% is a clarion call for justice and equity in education. It echoes the concerns of thousands of students who are bearing the burden of exorbitant education fees hikes – that will deny Nigerian students from poor working people’s backgrounds their right to quality education. The SWL asserts that education is a fundamental right and should not be a privilege reserved for a select rich few.
We stand in solidarity with the students who demand an immediate end to the financial oppression they face. Education must be affordable and accessible to all, regardless of their economic background. We call upon the university authorities and the government to heed the demands of the students’ pleas and reverse these draconian fee hikes with immediate effect.
In addition, we stand in solidarity with “Protest-a-thon” organized by students at the University of Lagos who are courageously standing against the suppression of their voices and the infringement on the rights of students by school authorities and security operatives.
The SWL is saddened by the intimidation being faced by students expressing their rights to protest against the sudden rise in their school fees, and we salute their determination and commitment to fostering change through concerted and tenacious struggle.
We recognize that student activism plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of society. It is the duty of every citizen to support the right to protest peacefully and demand accountability from our institutions. The SWL lends its voice to the cause of UNIJOS and UNILAG students. And we encourage them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice. As they dare to struggle, they dare to win.
Finally, the struggles at the University of Jos and the University of Lagos are not isolated incidents. They are part of a broader crisis in our education system. The SWL calls for a coordinated national fightback, uniting students, workers, trade unions and civic organisations across the country.
Together, we must demand:
1. Affordable Education: An end to exorbitant hikes in education fees and the implementation of policies that make education accessible to all.
2. Student Welfare: Improved living conditions for students, including better hostels, healthcare, and support services.
3. Freedom of Protest and Expression. The protection of the right of students to express dissenting opinions without fear of victimization.
4. End to Repression: An end to the harassment and intimidation of student activists and the respect for their rights to freedom of speech and assembly.
The SWL calls upon all progressive forces, students, workers, and civil society organizations to join hands in this national fightback. Together, we can build a more just and equitable society where education is a right, not a privilege.
For inquiries, please contact:
Mobolaji Otuyelu
National Secretary, Socialist Workers League
Email: motuyelu@gmail.com
Phone: +2349161471877
About the Socialist Workers League
The Socialist Workers League (SWL) is a grassroots organization of working people and youth dedicated to advancing workers’ rights, social justice, and the fight for a more equitable society. We believe in the power of collective action to bring about meaningful change and advocate for the rights of students and workers in Nigeria and everywhere.
