Universities closed down for February, March polls

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has announced the closure of universities across the country ahead of the February 25 and March 11 polls.

NUC, in a letter addressed to Vice-Chancellors of universities and Directors of inter-university centres, said the directive to shut down the schools was given by the Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu.

The letter states: “As Vice-Chancellors of all Universities and Director/Chief Executive of Inter-University Centres are quite aware the 2023 General Elections have been scheduled to hold on Saturday, February 25, 2023, for the Presidential and National Assembly, and Saturday, March 11, 2023, for Gubernatorial and State Assembly, respectively.

“In view of the foregoing and concerns expressed on the security of staff, students and properties of our respective institutions, the Honourable Minister of Education, Malam Adama Adamu has following extensive consultations with the relevant security agencies, directed that all Universities and Inter-University Centres be shut down and academic activities be suspended between February 22 and March 14, 2023.

“Consequently, Vice-Chancellors and chief executives of inter-university centres, are by this Circular requested to shut down their respective Institutions from Wednesday 22nd February 2023 to Tuesday 14th March 2023.

“Please, accept the renewed assurances of the Executive Secretary ‘s highest regard for your understanding and unwavering cooperation.”

CityWatch recalls that politicians had called for the closure of tertiary institutions to enable students to vote during the 2023 elections.

More than 26 million students are currently registered on the voters’ list, according to the Independent National Electoral Commission.