Some students and lecturers of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) on Tuesday called for a responsible students’ union in the university, following the recent unbanning of unionism by the institution’s authorities.
The union was proscribed in 2005 by former vice-chancellor, Prof. Oye Ibidapo-Obe, following a violent protest that led to an attack on the vice-chancellor’s lodge.
Prof. Rahamon Bello, the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, during the institution’s 2014/2015 matriculation on Friday, had, however, lifted the ban on students’ unionism at the university.
Dr Olubunmi Ajibade, Senior Lecturer, Department of Mass Communication, in an interview lauded the development, describing it as a step in the right direction, adding that the many years of students’ inactivity has impacted negatively on students’ politics.
He said the lifting of the ban was long overdue, as the students had since demonstrated traits of maturity.
“Having said this, however, I will also want to admonish the students not to abuse this opportunity that has just come their way.
“They should be able to show a high sense of responsibility in their approach to issues. We expect to see a students’ union that is constructive and characterised by maturity.
“I also want to urge the authorities to be tolerant to the attitude of the students and other labour unions within the university community, and seek their interest in decision-making.
“With this in place, there will be the much needed cordial relationship among all, and a very friendly teaching and learning environment,” Ajibade said.
Dr Oghenekaro Ogbinaka, Deputy Dean II, Students’ Affairs of the university, described the development as heart-warming, adding that before now, the institution’s students’ union was one of the most vibrant.
Ogbinaka, however, said there was the need for a lot of training to be put in place for the students on what was expected of them and the role they must play as responsible leaders and followers.
“The key word here is responsible unionism. Both the leaders and followers should strive to study their constitution, and follow it religiously,” he said.
Korede Solaja, a fourth-year student of the Department of Mass Communication, hailed the university authorities for unbanning students’ unionism.
Solaja said the move had opened a new chapter for students to express their views and discuss matters of common interest.
He, however, advised that students must be ready to join hands with the university authorities in a bid to move it forward, as a way of appreciating the gesture.
Obafemi Dare, another 400-level student, said that with students’ union in place, the leadership of the union would be able to bridge the communication gap between the authorities and the students.
Dare, also the Secretary General, Faculty of Arts, said it was a thing of joy to see students have their representation in the scheme of things in the institution.
NAN
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