Rusticated UNIBEN students reject VC’s recall offer
Five University of Benin (UNIBEN) students suspended for disrupting the peace of the institution with unruly behaviour have refused to apologise to the authorities.
The institution’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Faraday F. Osasere Orumwense advised the erring students to tender an unreserved apology for their actions so as to be allowed back on the school premises.
Ogbidi Osamudiamen, the Student Union President before his suspension, has said the offer is not acceptable, as it would mean they are admitting the offence they did not commit.
Another of the group, Benjamin Majekodunmi said the management was trying to push them to a dangerous corner by demanding for an apology.
Majekodunmi said ”An apology is an admittance of guilt and an expression of remorse. How can we apologise for exercising our constitutional rights to peaceful protest against the management unfavourable and anti-masses’ policy?
“By demanding an apology, the management is only finding a way to punch us into a very dangerous corner.”
The affected students, comprising some members of the Students Union Government, had been rusticated by the Senate of the institution for allegedly leading a protest against an increase in tuition fees.
