Students at a university in Edo State have blocked access to the campus in protest over a two-month-long strike by their lecturers. The strike, which stems from the non-payment of various allowances, has left students unable to proceed with their academic activities, including exams and inductions.

According to one student, lecturers had previously gone on strike for the same issue last year, but management’s promises to resolve the matter were never fulfilled. “Our lecturers went on strike last year on this same matter, and two months ago they resumed the strike,” the student said. “Those of us due for induction cannot proceed, and others can’t write exams while their counterparts from other departments are moving forward.”

The protest caused significant traffic disruptions, with vehicles being diverted through alternative routes. The school’s Public Relations Officer, Michael Osasuyi, acknowledged the ongoing issues but stated that the allowances being demanded were not recognized by the university. He confirmed that management had met to discuss the matter and was working to resolve the impasse.

Comrade Salami David, Chairman of the Joint Campus Committee (JCC) for the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in Edo State, said efforts were being made to persuade the protesting students to return to campus. “We have managed to convince the students to return to campus with the help of school security and the Students’ Union Government, but they have threatened to resume the protest tomorrow,” Salami said.

The students are calling on the university’s management to address their concerns swiftly so they can resume their academic activities without further delays.