TJ Lorapuu of BSU Policies And Hike In Fees: Alumni To Intervene; Governor Alia, Governing Council And The Senate Must Act To Proof Mr VC Is Not Acting Their Scripted Play
The role of the Vice Chancellor at Benue State University (BSU) is one that holds immense responsibility. Unfortunately, under the leadership of Mr. TJ Lorapuu, the current Vice Chancellor, the students of BSU have been left to bear the consequences of decisions that undermine their well-being and academic freedom.
The power to hire and, more importantly, fire the Vice Chancellor rest with the State Governor, Governing Council and the Senate. They must act decisively to address the ongoing issues at BSU and remove Prof. TJ Lorapuu from his position for the unjustifiable increase in tuition fee.
A Leadership That Oppresses
From the beginning of his tenure, Mr. TJ’s policies have largely been out of sync with the interests of the students. His approach to leadership has stifled the very voice of the students, with the Students’ Union now largely powerless to stand against his decisions. The Governor is well aware of the situation, yet no substantial action has been taken to address the growing concerns of the students.
Under Prof. TJ Lorapuu, student activism has been severely restricted, and the rights of students to freely express their concerns have been curbed, just as seen in the peaceful protest by the Medical students, where all medical students of BSU were suspended, the students Union Immediate past president, Comr. Iyorkaa Nelson Senongo, faced series of suspension all because of speaking for the students right. The administration has placed significant barriers on the ability of students to challenge policies, leaving them without the means to address the hardships they face. The VC chorus always is suspending the students Union and threatening students by asking for their departments to deal with them
The Silence of the Alumni
It is not just the current students only that need to take actions. The alumni of BSU, too, have been notably silent in standing up for their juniours. While the alumni may not feel the immediate effects of the current administration, their failure to support students’ rights or raise their voices against injustice is troubling. The Students’ Union, whose primary function is to represent students’ concerns, has been caged. They are unable to effectively engage in advocacy or speak out against the oppressive nature of the current leadership.
Alumni have a responsibility to speak for the students, recognizing the fact that BSU is our Alma mater, we can’t claim another school as our prestigious institution. Action is needed, at this crucial juncture, enough is enough for Mr. TJ’s intimidation and oppression styles of leadership.
The Financial Strain on Students
The financial burden placed on students continues to increase, with no clear justification. Admitted students are still required to pay unnecessary fees, such as the admission checking fee and mandatory computer training fees, even if they are unable to attend the training or already possess the necessary skills. Furthermore, the rising cost of tuition, including the high fees associated with his initiated summer semester for carryover students, is placing an undue strain on students already grappling with economic challenges.
These fees are not only a financial burden but also serve as a reminder of how disconnected the administration is from the realities students face. Mr. TJ’s leadership has turned education into a financial struggle rather than an opportunity for growth. Many students are now looking for illegal means such as prostitution and fraud to meet up with the hike fees
A Plea for Action
The time has come for Governor Alia, Governing Council and the Senate to take a stand. The current situation at BSU is unsustainable. Mr. TJ has shown a disregard for student welfare, freedom of speech, and fairness in financial matters. The Governor, Governing Council and the Senate must act swiftly to remove him from his post and restore BSU to an institution that serves the students, not the personal interests of a few.
A Collective Effort for Change
It is essential that students, alumni, and the government come together to demand the removal of Mr. TJ as Vice Chancellor. Governor Alia has the power to make the change that is needed to restore fairness and justice to BSU. If the recent hikes in tuition fees are not directly linked to state policy, then removing Mr. TJ should serve as a clear message that the government is committed to prioritizing the welfare of students.
The future of BSU is at a crossroads. It is time for change, and the first step is for Governor Alia to remove Mr. TJ. The students deserve better, and they must not be silenced any longer. Enough is enough. Kudos to the Students Union, led by Comr. Oyi Samuel for suspending school fees payment in protest against increased user charges, Nothing shall discourage us.
A concern Alumnus
Fakinlede Tope John
