University of Benin Students Protest Power Outage, Block Highway

Students of the University of Benin took to the Benin/Ore highway on Wednesday, causing vehicular gridlock and stranding commuters in protest of a prolonged power outage on the institution's campuses in Ugbowo and Ekhewan, Benin.

The university reportedly experienced a blackout due to unresolved issues with the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) over escalated electricity billing, which surged from N80 million to N280 million monthly. In response, the university resorted to using alternative power generators and implementing power rationing across its campuses.

Protesters, carrying placards and chanting slogans, voiced their frustration over the situation, citing inadequate study conditions with only one hour of electricity daily. John, a student protester, expressed concern that the lack of power was hindering academic preparation, stating, "We need electricity to read and prepare for our exams."

Sarah, another student, emphasized their determination not to disperse until the issue was resolved, asserting, "We will not leave the highway until something is done."

The protest, though causing inconvenience to commuters like Osas, who lamented financial losses, highlighted the students' resolve for immediate action from the university management. Meanwhile, the university's Public Relations Officer, Benedicta Ehanire, confirmed ongoing efforts within the Senate to address the crisis.

Despite the rainfall, the students remained steadfast in their protest, demanding a swift resolution to the power outage impacting their academic activities.