News
Protests Rock UNIBEN as Students Shut Down Benin-Ore Highway Over Power Outage
Students of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) blocked the Benin-Ore Highway on Wednesday, protesting a prolonged power outage that has disrupted their preparation for first-semester examinations. The outage resulted from a dispute between the university and the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) over a significant hike in electricity bills.
Background of the Dispute
The power outage, which has persisted for weeks, started when BEDC increased the university’s monthly electricity charges by over 200%. The bill reportedly jumped from approximately N80 million to between N200 million and N280 million, forcing the university to rely on generators and ration power across its campuses and hostels.
Students’ Grievances
Students expressed their frustration over the inadequate power supply, which they say hampers their ability to study effectively for their exams, scheduled to start in two weeks. “We have had only one hour of electricity every day since this issue started. We are tired of studying in the dark,” said John Afolabi, one of the protesting students. Another student, Sarah Osaigbovo, added, “We need electricity to read and prepare for our exams. The university management needs to take responsibility and fix this issue.”
Impact of the Protest
The protest began early in the morning, with students carrying placards and chanting slogans as they blocked the highway. The demonstration caused significant traffic disruption, leaving many commuters stranded. “I’m supposed to be at work right now, but I’ve been stuck here for hours. I understand the students’ plight, but they need to find a better way to protest,” said one frustrated commuter.
Despite heavy rainfall, the students remained resolute in their protest, highlighting their desperation and frustration over the lack of essential services. The prolonged power outage has severely impacted their academic responsibilities, adding to their grievances.
University Management’s Response
Dr. Benedicta Ehanire, the Public Relations Officer of UNIBEN, confirmed that the university’s Senate was in a meeting to resolve the issue. “The management is aware of the students’ grievances and is working tirelessly to find a lasting solution to the power outage,” she stated.
Broader Implications
The ongoing protest by UNIBEN students underscores the critical need for reliable infrastructure in educational institutions. The power outage not only disrupts academic activities but also highlights broader issues of governance and service delivery. As the university management and BEDC work towards a resolution, the primary focus must remain on ensuring that students can continue their education without further hindrance. The outcome of the ongoing Senate meeting will be crucial in determining the next steps and restoring normalcy to the university.
News
Tragedy Strikes Hindu Festival in India: Nearly 40 Children Drown During Ritual Bathing
In a devastating incident in eastern India, at least 46 people, including 37 children and seven women, have drowned while celebrating the Hindu Jivitputrika festival. The fatalities, which occurred across 15 districts within the past 24 hours, resulted from victims ritually bathing in rivers and ponds swollen by recent flooding.
The three-day festival, which honors children’s wellbeing, is traditionally marked by mothers fasting and families participating in ritual baths. This year, the swollen water bodies, exacerbated by recent floods, have turned the celebratory ritual into a deadly disaster.
Local disaster management officials have expressed fears that the death toll could rise further. State authorities have promised compensation for the families and relatives of the victims.
Fatal accidents during religious festivals are not uncommon in India, where large gatherings often take place with insufficient safety measures. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by such gatherings, especially during adverse weather conditions.
News
Israeli Airstrikes Hit Beirut, Hezbollah Leader Targeted Amid Escalating Conflict
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have conducted airstrikes in Beirut, reportedly killing Mohammad Hussein Surur, a senior Hezbollah air unit leader. The Lebanese health ministry confirmed two deaths and 15 injuries from the attack. The strikes come amid escalating violence between Israel and Hezbollah, with both sides exchanging fire throughout the night and into the morning.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the IDF would continue to fight “with full force” against Hezbollah, aiming to dismantle the Iran-backed militant group. This marks a significant intensification of hostilities between the two sides, which have been exchanging rockets and airstrikes for days. The Lebanese health ministry also reported that 28 people were killed today by Israeli airstrikes.
In retaliation, Hezbollah launched 80 missiles targeting northern Israeli cities, including Safed. Israeli authorities have reported no casualties but noted significant property damage in Safed and Rosh Pina.
Amid the intensifying conflict, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin renewed calls for a diplomatic solution. The U.S., along with 11 other allied nations, has urged both Israel and Hezbollah to agree to a ceasefire to prevent further escalation and civilian casualties.
News
Strong Winds Cause Further Ferry Cancellations Between Isle of Man and Lancashire
Ferry travel between the Isle of Man and Lancashire continues to face disruption due to strong winds over the Irish Sea. The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has cancelled Thursday’s 08:45 BST sailing of the Manxman to Heysham and its scheduled 14:15 return journey. This follows the cancellation of the vessel’s return trip from the Lancashire port on Wednesday evening.
The disruptions have affected postal services, with the Isle of Man Post Office reporting delays in deliveries from the UK. While local deliveries within the island remain unaffected, items posted on Wednesday for UK delivery may not reach Royal Mail’s network in time for Friday delivery.
Additionally, the ferry cancellations have caused a delay in newspaper deliveries, with no papers available on the island on Thursday, as confirmed by the island’s wholesale distributor.
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