Ahead of the 2023 general elections, the National Universities Commission (NUC), has ordered the management of universities across the country to shut down activities for students to participate in the poll.
The directive was confirmed in a letter addressed to vice-chancellors of all universities and directors of inter-university centres by the NUC.
The Commission, however, noted that the order was based on the directive from the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu.
As stated in the letter, the decision is based on concerns about security of lives and properties in public institutions during the general elections coming up by end of the month.
“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, 11th 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. Adamu 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 22nd 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”, the letter from the NUC read.
It could be recalled that concerned stakeholders and groups have called for the closure of tertiary institutions across the nation to enable students to vote during the 2023 elections.
This is as they have also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to further extend the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to enable registered Nigerians to collect their PVCs and be able to participate in the elections.
According to the data from INEC over 26 million students are currently registered voters eligible to participate in the election.
