Anambra Poly Students Stage Protest Against N5k Fee, Opt Out of Exams

Students of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko in Anambra State have taken to the streets in protest against the institution’s decision to levy a compulsory N5,000 examination fee. They voiced their discontent not only about the fee itself but also about the management’s directive to bar those who haven’t paid from taking their exams.

The protest, which saw over 1,000 students participating, was marked by chants and placards denouncing the fee and demanding various changes, including a reduction in textbook costs and the allowance to complete medical and data capture processes. The demonstration spanned from the school’s main gate to administrative buildings, departments, and even the permanent site, culminating at the prominent school tower.

Addressing the agitated students, Cynthia Felix, Secretary General of the National Association of Nigeria Students, South East Zone, urged for calm while vowing to advocate for the students’ rights. She specifically called for the withdrawal of the memo introducing the examination fee and advocated for all students to be granted access to their exams.

Chukwuebuka Umezula, Vice President of the National Association of Polytechnic Students, South East, criticized the management’s decision to implement the examination fee on short notice, particularly during a public holiday. He emphasized the students’ resolve to continue protesting and boycotting exams until the management reconsiders its stance, highlighting the financial strain already endured by students and their families. Despite assurances from the Acting Public Relations Officer that the matter is under internal review, students remain resolute in their demands for fair treatment and affordability in education.