2023 Polls: NUC orders closure of Nigerian Universities
A few weeks before the general elections, the National Universities Commission (NUC) ordered the closure of universities across the country to enable students to participate in the poll.
The regulatory agency for universities in Nigeria disclosed on Thursday in a letter addressed to vice-chancellors of all universities and directors of inter-university centers.
Recall that there have been calls from the public for the closure of tertiary institutions to enable students to vote during the 2023 elections, especially as data from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) reveals that over 26 million students are currently registered.
The NUC in the letter to various institutions noted that the order was based on the directive of the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, stating that all schools and academic activities be suspended between February 22 and March 14, 2023.
NUC added that the closer was also necessary for the security of staff, students, and properties of various institutions.
The letter reads: “As Vice-Chancellors of all Universities and Director/Chief Executive of Inter-University Centres are quite aware the 2023 General Elections have been scheduled to hold on Saturday 25th February 2023, for the Presidential and National Assembly, and Saturday 1st March 2023 for Gubernatorial and State Assembly, respectively.
“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.
“Consequently, Vice-Chancellors and chief executives of inter-university centres, are by this Circular requested to shut down their respective Institutions from Wednesday 22nd February 2023 to Tuesday 14th March 2023.
“Please, accept the renewed assurances of the Executive Secretary‘s highest regard for your understanding and unwavering cooperation”.