The Bayelsa State Government has suspended the implementation of the controversial new school fees policy introduced at the Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Amassoma.
The government’s directive, issued on Thursday, came amid growing concerns over the reported increase in fees at the state-owned institution.
In a special government announcement signed by the Commissioner for Education, Chief Dr Gentle Emelah, the state government directed the university management to immediately halt the implementation of the new fee regime.
The government also urged students and the university management to remain calm and continue with their academic activities.
“By this directive, Management and Students are advised to go about their usual academic activities, maintain order and shun acts capable of causing rancour and chaos in and around the campus environment,” the statement read.
The government did not give details of the new fee structure or explain the reasons for suspending its implementation.
It also did not state whether the controversial policy would be permanently withdrawn or reviewed following consultations with relevant stakeholders.
The suspension is, however, expected to douse tension surrounding the reported fee increase and allow academic activities at the institution to continue without disruption.
The Niger Delta University, established by the Bayelsa State Government, is one of the state’s major tertiary institutions and has thousands of students enrolled in various undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
The government’s latest directive effectively places the implementation of the new school fees on hold pending further action.
Students and other members of the university community have consequently been advised to remain peaceful and avoid any action capable of disrupting academic activities on campus.
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