UNN Campus Unrest: University Warns Against External Provocation
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has issued a firm warning against external interference aimed at provoking unrest within its campuses, emphasizing that the institution will not tolerate attempts to manipulate students over service fee adjustments. In an official statement released on Thursday, January 29, 2026, the university leadership clarified that while the economic climate has necessitated certain fee revisions, dialogue remains the preferred channel for addressing student concerns rather than protests driven by outside actors.
The tension began after the announcement of revised service charges for the 2025/2026 academic session, which the university said were required to cover rising costs in essential services such as electricity, water, and laboratory supplies. UNN noted with concern that individuals unaffiliated with the institution have been circulating misinformation on social media and attempting to organize unauthorized demonstrations on the Nsukka and Enugu campuses.
UNN emphasized that the adjustments to sundry charges are necessary for institutional sustainability and are not arbitrary. Key areas impacted include utility bills, which have tripled due to higher tariffs; ICT and library services, where foreign exchange scarcity has driven up costs for digital resources; and security infrastructure, which has been strengthened to protect students amid regional concerns. The administration stressed that even with these revisions, UNN remains one of the most affordable federal universities in Nigeria, maintaining high-quality academic and research standards.
The university further highlighted intelligence indicating that external actors are deliberately using the fee adjustments as a “Trojan horse” to spread misinformation and create confusion among students. Viral posts have reportedly exaggerated charges, fueling anger and attempts to organize disruptive protests. The Vice-Chancellor’s office warned that any student participating in demonstrations led by non-students would face strict disciplinary measures, including possible expulsion.
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To maintain safety and order, security measures at all campus entry points have been intensified. Students and staff are required to carry identification cards, and large gatherings not approved by the Dean of Student Affairs have been temporarily restricted. At the same time, UNN reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, inviting students and parents to address grievances through official channels.
As matriculation and examinations approach, the university is focused on providing a stable learning environment. By addressing external threats proactively, UNN aims to balance financial sustainability with student welfare, setting a benchmark for federal universities navigating economic challenges in a rapidly changing educational landscape.