- The University of Benin has banned hot plates, ring boilers, and gas cookers in its hostels to tackle soaring energy costs.
- The Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) drastically increased the university’s monthly electricity bill from N88 million to N250 million.
The University of Benin has banned the use of hot plates, ring boilers, and gas cookers in its hostels as part of measures to curb rising energy-related costs. The decision, announced in a circular by the university’s Registrar, Ademola Bobola, aims to address the institution’s significant increase in electricity expenses.
The prohibition is a response to a recent electricity crisis affecting the university. The Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) drastically increased the university’s monthly electricity bill from N88 million to N250 million. This sharp hike in billing led to the BEDC disconnection of both university campuses, plunging the institution into weeks of power outages. The situation was temporarily mitigated by reliance on generator power, which only exacerbated the energy costs.
The crisis culminated in a student protest on July 3, driven by frustration over the prolonged power outage. The unrest prompted the university Senate to close the institution to prevent further disruptions and maintain order.
In the wake of these developments, the University of Benin’s management has taken several steps to restore normalcy and ensure compliance with new energy regulations. The recent circular outlines strict measures for students, including adherence to the newly implemented arrangements for electricity supply and distribution on campus.
Registrar Bobola emphasised that any student violating the ban on electrical appliances would face severe consequences, including rustication from the university. He also underscored the necessity for students to clear all outstanding levies to be eligible for examinations. Students must present evidence of payment upon resumption; those without proof of payment will be barred from entering exam halls.
The management’s new policies reflect a broader effort to manage the university’s financial strain caused by skyrocketing energy costs. By regulating energy usage and enforcing strict compliance measures, the University of Benin aims to mitigate the impact of the electricity crisis and restore stability to its campus environment.