Jelili Gbadamosi
The Students’ Union Government of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY) on Monday staged a peaceful protest at the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) office in Abeokuta over persistent electricity shortages affecting student-populated residential areas.
The demonstration was led by the SUG leadership, including the Students’ Union President, Sen. Comr. Afolabi Temitope, and the Speaker of the Students’ Representative Council, Rt. Hon. Ademolu Toheeb Olawale. The protest aimed to draw attention to the prolonged lack of adequate power supply, which students say has negatively impacted their safety, academic performance, and overall well-being.
Speaking on the development, Comr. Taiwo Adeyemo, Special Adviser to the Speaker on Public Engagement and Communication, explained that the protest was organized after several meetings between student leaders and IBEDC management failed to produce a lasting solution.
According to him, the electricity crisis has exposed students to heightened security risks, with frequent reports of robberies and other criminal activities in poorly lit residential areas.
He added that students also continue to grapple with high electricity bills despite irregular power supply, making it difficult for many to study and carry out basic daily activities.
The protest, however, remained orderly and peaceful, largely due to the intervention of security agencies.
Adeyemo noted that the situation only de-escalated following the timely involvement of the Ogun State Commissioner of Police.
The Students’ Union Government also expressed appreciation to the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Ogun Axis, and other stakeholders who showed solidarity with MAPOLY students during the protest.
Special commendation was given to the various Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) deployed to the scene for ensuring safety and maintaining order throughout the demonstration.
The union further lauded the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, for his diplomatic and strategic handling of the situation, which contributed significantly to resolving some of the issues raised and ensuring a peaceful outcome.
The SUG reiterated its commitment to pursuing constructive engagement until a sustainable solution is reached to the electricity challenges affecting MAPOLY students.
