Protesters
By Kingsley Abavo, Benin
In solidarity with the about six months old strike of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the Labour movement on Tuesday began the two day solidarity peaceful protest declared across the country, in Benin-City, Edo State.
The protest was in response to the call of the National Leadership, to help prevail on the Federal Government to implement the agreement reached with the Union, to enable the Universities reopen.
Having an impressive turn out, the protest began at the National Museum, King’s Square (City Centre), taken through the Reservation road; G.R.A and ended at the Government House.
NLC Chairman, Edo State Council, comrade Odion Olaye presented the letter of the national Chairman, comrade Wabba Ayuba to the Chief of Staff, Osaigbovo Iyoha who represented the Governor, Godwin Obaseki.
Governor Obaseki speaking through his representative said it was unfortunate, that the Federal Government allowed the strike to linger not minding the fate of the students, the primary victims.
Adding, it was a shame that some of the demands ASUU is pushing have been in existence since the 90s.
The protest was made lively by revolutionary songs of the late ‘Afrobeat King’ Fela Anikulapo Kuti blarring from loud speakers on trailer long truck.
As the placards carried had various inscriptions: “Problems caused by IPPIS are numerous
“NLC is in solidarity with all its affiliates
“FG sign the deal, use UTAS! Implement!
“FG save our Universities from collapse
“All Nigerian workers are in solidarity with Nigerian Universities,” amongst many others.
