UNIBEN suspends student union over attack on LP gov candidate

The University of Benin's Student Union Government has been suspended indefinitely by the administration.

The Edo State Labour Party's candidate, Olumide Akpata, was attacked by some students who were allegedly members of the student union, according to a statement released by the university on Monday and signed by Registrar Ademola Bobola.

The suspension began on Monday, April 29, 2024, according to the announcement.

"The panel constituted to investigate the incidents that occurred in the Faculty of Law and the University's Senior Staff Club on Friday, April 12, 2024" has reported its findings to the university management, according to the statement.

"The Vice Chancellor has approved the suspension after giving the management's report careful consideration."
"The indefinite suspension is effective immediately, that is, on Monday, April 29, 2024.

As a result, by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, all officers of the students' union are required to turn over all union property that they are in possession of to the Dean of Students' Affairs.

In the interim, it has been allowed for a Caretaker Committee made up of members from institutions, schools, and faculties to oversee student activities while they are suspended.

"It is hereby communicated for the attention of the university community and compliance of the former union officers as appropriate, the aforementioned directive of the Vice Chancellor."