A group from the Rumuolumeni community, mainly women and youths, has brought activities at the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education to a standstill over allegations of marginalisation.
The protesters blocked the university’s main gate with rafia leaves, tents, and cooking pots, preventing staff and students from accessing the campus.
The university’s activities came to a halt, with protesters dancing around the gate to local drums, while security agencies were present to maintain order.
The Guardian learned that some students are still writing their first semester General Studies Examination, while others were expecting to start their second semester lectures.
The protesters vowed not to vacate the gate until their demands are met.
Addressing Newsmen, the Rumuolumeni Youth leader, Felix Chinda, claimed that the community has been marginalized in employment and contract opportunities despite providing land for the institution.
Chinda expressed frustration over the university management’s alleged disregard for their concerns, despite several letters and meetings.
He specifically pointed out that the recent employment exercise was unfair, with opportunities allegedly diverted to non-indigenes.
He said, “Over the years, during employment, the institution never carried the people along. During employment exercise as a host community, they do not carry us along.
“Our parents, this is where they farm, and we gave the institution when they approached us. In turn, we expected that we would get employment in place of giving our land, but during employment, they do not employ our people.”
Meanwhile, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Okechukwu Onuchuku, while addressing the demonstrators, explained that the employment process was merit-based and supervised by the dissolved governing board chairman.
The VC maintained that the process was transparent and fair.
