The ongoing crisis at the Federal College of Education, Technical (FCET) in Akoka escalated into violence on Monday.
Workers and students reportedly attacked the Chairman of the Governing Council, Olatunde Adenuga, and other council members, causing significant damage to property.
Violence and Arrests
The Lagos State Police Command confirmed the incident via a post on X, noting that 32 individuals were arrested in connection with the violence.
The rioting participants blocked all entrances and attacked the police with stones and water sachets upon their arrival.
The college authorities were decided to shut down the campus to abate the situation.
A viral video on X showed students and workers vandalising vehicles belonging to college officials.
Background of the Crisis
The unrest began on May 27 when workers locked the office of Provost Wahab Azeez, issuing a notice for him to vacate his official residence.
The protest, led by the Senior Staff Union of Colleges of Education (SSUCOEN), was sparked by an amendment to the Educational Colleges Act 2023, which introduced a single five-year term for provosts and other principal officers.
The workers claimed Azeez’s term ended on May 26, 2023.
Provost’s Position
Provost Azeez argued that he was reappointed for a second term before the amended act was signed into law on June 12, 2023.
Letters seeking clarification on his tenure were sent to the Minister of Education, who affirmed the legality of Azeez’s second term.
Protests and Government Intervention
Despite the minister’s clarification, the protests continued, with workers denying management access to their offices.
The Minister of State for Education, Yusuf Sununu, met with the conflicting parties in Abuja, leading to resolutions that included reopening the provost’s office and ending the protests.
However, some workers continued to threaten further action if Azeez returned to his office.
Resolution Efforts
The resolutions signed at the reconciliatory meeting, chaired by Sununu, mandated the new governing council to investigate staff concerns, including alleged misappropriation of funds for the college’s fencing and the appointment of the bursar.
The situation remains tense as authorities work towards resolving the issues and restoring normalcy at FCET Akoka.
For information on Press Releases, Photos, Promotional Events and Adverts, Please message us on WhatsApp via (+234) 09052129258, 08124662170 or send an email to: info@educeleb.com.
