By Gabriel Enogholase

BENIN—STUDENTS of Edo State have decried the alleged neglect of state-owned higher institutions by the state government.

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki

They lamented the closure of  College of Agriculture, Iguoriakhi, the Tayo Akpata University and the demolition of  Centre for Community Development Education, Benin.

The students under the umbrella body of Nigeria Students and Youths Association, NISAYA, spoke,  when they paid a courtesy visit to the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ,  Edo State chapter.

It will be recalled that former Governor Adams Oshiomhole at the twilight  of his tenure in office,  converted the College of Education, Ekiadolor, to Tayo Akpata University of Education.

Governor Godwin Obaseki also closed down the College of Agriculture, Iguoriakhi, in the first quarter of 2018.

The governor who disengaged all members of staff of the institution , said the government wants to revamp it, with upgraded infrastructure.

Speaking for the group during the visit, President of the students/youth body, Osamudiamen Ogbidi , said the state government had taken education out of the reach of children of ordinary citizens.

“The College of Education, Ekiadolor, is non existent, lacks identity and it no longer has any impact on the community. The last time we visited the school, we shedded tears.  It is shameful that in this 21st century where people are investing more on education, we are having institutions shut down in Edo State.

“The College of Agriculture, Iguoriakhi, the only College of Agriculture in the entire South-South Nigeria, has been shut down. It is so painful. The school has been taken over by giant trees. How long are we going to continue like this?

“Just yesterday, we got information that the only Centre for Community Development Education Benin, has not only been shot down, it has been demolished by the state government.  The school is affiliated to the University of Benin, where you can do a diploma for a direct entry into UNIBEN.

“We are using this medium to appeal to the state government, we are not fighting, but we are demanding, because, education is our right. The state government should look into the tertiary education sector.”