By Adesakin Adefemi
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Committee (JCC) Benue Axis has strongly condemned the unlawful eviction of students of Rev Fr Moses Orshio Adasu University (formerly Benue State University) by Kyabiz Nigeria Limited.
The students, who were residing off-campus in properties managed by Kyabiz, were allegedly denied accommodation despite having paid fees to the company.
According to NANS, the affected students were shocked to find themselves stranded as the properties they occupied were sold for demolition without prior notification or compensation.
This act, described by NANS as a “gross violation of their rights and a clear case of exploitation,” has sparked outrage among student representatives and stakeholders.
In a statement signed by NANS PRO JCC Benue Axis, Demesugh Desmond Awolowo, for the Chairman Terseer Aondosoo Emmanuel, the association expressed its “utmost concern and indignation over the distressing situation faced by students.” NANS demands that Kyabiz Nigeria Limited takes immediate and concrete steps to resolve this issue within 24 hours.
NANS claims to possess documented evidence of payments made to Kyabiz’s account, including receipts up to December last year, proving that students had legally paid for accommodation. “We view this as a grave injustice and a blatant disregard for the welfare of Nigerian students,” the statement read, emphasizing that NANS will not hesitate to take necessary actions to ensure justice is served.
The student body has urged Kyabiz Nigeria Limited to address the issue urgently and provide a resolution, warning that failure to do so will compel NANS to mobilize its members and stakeholders to take further action. This development has heightened tensions between students and property managers in the area, with concerns about potential disruptions to academic activities.
The eviction of students without proper notice or alternative arrangements has raised questions about the treatment of students by private accommodation providers. NANS’ intervention highlights the need for better regulation of off-campus housing and protection of students’ rights in such arrangements.
As the deadline given by NANS approaches, all eyes are on Kyabiz Nigeria Limited to see how it will respond to the demands. The outcome of this situation will likely impact relationships between student bodies, property managers, and universities in Benue State and potentially beyond.
Stakeholders in the education sector are watching closely, as the resolution of this issue could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future. The involvement of NANS underscores the importance of student welfare and rights in discussions about accommodation and living conditions.
In the coming hours and days, developments in this case will be keenly observed, with expectations that Kyabiz Nigeria Limited will engage with NANS and affected students to find a mutually acceptable solution. The situation at Rev Fr Moses Orshio Adasu University serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by students in securing safe and stable accommodation.
Ultimately, the response to this incident will test the commitment of all parties involved to upholding students’ rights and ensuring their well-being, a critical aspect of creating conducive learning environments in Nigerian universities.
