The initial 100% hike was reduced to 60% after protests, but students still consider it too much for a public university meant to be affordable for the masses.
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Students argue the hike is unfair, given Nigeria's economic challenges and their own financial struggles. Nwabunwanne Chigozie, a final-year Mass Communication student, described the hike as "outrageous", saying, "Education is a right, not a privilege".
Many students come from humble backgrounds and face financial constraints, including rising costs of textbooks, accommodation, and daily expenses.
Cosmos Kenechukwu, a Political Science finalist, warned that a tuition hike at this time would be "devastating" for many students already stretched to their limits.
The students urge the university to explore alternative funding models and notify them before making decisions. "Increasing fees risks forcing brilliant students out of school, not for lack of intellect, but for lack of means," Kenechukwu added.
The university's plans for the increased funds are unclear, but students hope the administration will consider their concerns and prioritize affordable education.
As the situation unfolds, students and parents await the university's next steps, hoping for a resolution that balances financial sustainability with accessibility.