University of Benin Students Block Benin/Ore Highway Over Power Outage Dispute
Students of the University of Benin have blocked the Benin/Ore highway on Wednesday, causing vehicular movement to halt and leaving commuters stranded.
The protest began early in the morning with students carrying placards and chanting slogans as they occupied the highway as they were protesting a prolonged power outage affecting the institution’s Ugbowo and Ekhewan campuses in Benin City as the university reportedly plunged into darkness due to a disagreement with the Benin Electricity Distribution Company over a substantial increase in monthly electricity charges from N80 million to N280 million. In response, the university resorted to using alternative power sources and implementing rationing measures on the affected campuses.
Meanwhile, a commuter caught in the gridlock voiced sympathy for the students’ cause but criticized the highway blockade, lamenting the hours spent stranded instead of being at work.
“If I knew this was going to happen, I would ply this route because It has caused me to lose income and I may not be able to reach my target for the day.
“I hope the management of the school will address the students protest so that this situation can be brought to an ended. Many people are also stranded and they will not be able to go to work or their places of business.”
An angry commuter, who refused to disclose his name said, “I’m supposed to be at work right now, but I’ve been stuck here for hours.
“I understand the students’ plight, but they need to find a better way to protest.”
Despite heavy rainfall, the students remained steadfast in their protest, demanding a resolution to the electricity issue.
