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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
Over 60 Injured in Drone Strike on Northern Israel
More than 60 people have been injured following a drone strike in northern Israel’s Binyamina region, according to emergency response organization United Hatzalah. The attack, claimed by Hezbollah, targeted a training camp of the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) Golani Brigade, located between Tel Aviv and Haifa.
The victims, whose conditions range from critical to mild, were evacuated to five regional hospitals via ambulances and helicopters. Israeli media reported that 67 people were injured in total, with four in critical condition and five others seriously wounded.
Hezbollah’s media office said the strike was in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon and Beirut earlier this week. The group used a “swarm of drones” in the attack, and reports suggest the low-level drones launched from Lebanon did not trigger Israel’s early warning alarms.
Footage showed wounded individuals being rushed into emergency vehicles, including helicopters, as medical teams worked swiftly to provide care. The injured were taken to hospitals in Hadera, Tel Hashomer, Haifa, Afula, and Netanya, where medical teams are working to stabilize those in critical condition.
News
Officials Urge Caution in Aftermath of Hurricane Milton: ‘Don’t Go Sightseeing’
Although Hurricane Milton has passed, officials are warning residents across Florida to remain cautious as the storm’s lingering effects, including severe flooding, continue to pose risks. In Hillsborough County, where Tampa is located, rescue teams have been hard at work after the river overflowed, causing over 6 feet (1.8 meters) of flooding. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, traveling by boat, has been ensuring the safety of residents in the flood-affected areas.
While multiple Florida ports have reopened, including Key West, Port Everglades, and Miami, several remain closed, such as those in St. Petersburg, Fort Myers, and Jacksonville. Georgia and South Carolina have also seen some port reopenings, but many areas still face closures and flooding risks.
President Biden provided an update on the storm’s damage, estimating the total cost to be around $50 billion. He emphasized that more financial aid would be necessary and called on Congress to approve additional funds as the true extent of the damage is assessed.
Officials are also urging people to stay off the roads and avoid “sightseeing” in affected areas to prevent further accidents or fatalities. “We’re going to need a lot of help,” Biden said, stressing the long recovery ahead after Milton and Hurricane Helene, which struck the region just weeks earlier.
News
Florida Reels as Hurricane Milton Leaves Six Dead and Destruction in its Wake
At least six people have died after Hurricane Milton tore through Florida, leaving behind a trail of destruction. As emergency responders navigate floodwaters and clear debris from fallen trees and power lines, the full extent of the storm’s toll remains unclear.
In St. Lucie County, four people lost their lives after multiple tornadoes struck the region. In central Florida’s St. Petersburg, police chief Anthony Halloway confirmed two more deaths.
President Joe Biden addressed the nation, acknowledging the uncertain scope of the damage and the dangers that remain. He emphasized that while the storm has passed, the aftermath can often bring additional fatalities. “There’s still very dangerous conditions in the state,” Biden warned.
He also stressed the need for substantial financial aid to support the state’s recovery. Biden called on Congress, currently in recess, to return and address the urgent emergency funding needs, underscoring that Florida’s recovery will be a “long haul” requiring billions of dollars in aid.
The president assured that immediate relief efforts are underway, ensuring that residents affected by the storm receive the support they need.
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