Uli, Anambra State – Students of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli, have raised concerns over the prolonged lack of electricity supply to their institution, despite a recent pledge by Governor Chukwuma Soludo to restore power. The students lament that the absence of electricity exacerbates security challenges, particularly night-time attacks by unknown gunmen.
In an interaction with newsmen, a student identified simply as Joseph expressed frustration over the situation. “Whenever night falls, our happiness turns to sadness because there is no electricity supply to the university. Fear of the unknown normally grips us,” he said.
Joseph recalled Governor Soludo’s visit a month ago, during which he promised to restore power. “Since then, nothing has happened. If the government truly intends to provide electricity, it wouldn’t take more than a month to fix. This is a state university that should be better equipped than some federal institutions because the funding is available,” he added.
The student highlighted two major concerns affecting their welfare: insecurity and lack of power supply. “Students studying computer science and other electricity-dependent courses are the worst hit. How can they cope without electricity? A good learning environment requires power,” he concluded.
A female student, who requested anonymity, shared her personal struggle, stating that she relies on a lantern but struggles with the rising cost of kerosene. “I have my lantern because I have no hope of the school getting electricity. If possible, we students should contribute and procure solar panels since the state government appears indifferent to our plight,” she suggested.
She further expressed worries over the security threats faced by students at night. “Only God knows what we go through. Sometimes, unknown gunmen take over certain areas because there is no light. If the government cannot provide electricity, they should at least supply solar energy,” she urged.
Human rights activist and National Chairman of the Human Development Rights Association (HDRA), Comrade Jude Achebe, condemned the situation, describing it as unacceptable for a state university in the modern age. “How will a computer science student cope after graduation when they have never had access to power for practical learning? A governor visited a month ago and pledged to provide electricity, yet nothing has changed. Darkness allows all manners of crime to thrive, but light drives out darkness,” Achebe remarked.
He called on Governor Soludo to fulfill his promise to the students. “Some of these students come from homes where electricity is available. They should not have to suffer at school. The governor must act now and provide power to ensure a conducive learning environment,” he concluded.
As students continue to endure these hardships, they remain hopeful that the government will take immediate steps to address the electricity crisis and the insecurity affecting their institution.