Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Bayelsa State Government has ordered the immediate suspension of the implementation of the new school fees regime at the Niger Delta University, Amassoma, following mounting concerns over a reported 250 per cent increase in charges that had sparked widespread student protests and threats of industrial action.
The directive was contained in a special government announcement signed by the Commissioner for Education, Chief Dr Gentle Emelah, on Thursday, September 3, 2026. The government directed the university management to put the new fee regime on hold and urged both students and the authorities of the institution to maintain peace and ensure that academic activities continue without interruption. "By this directive, Management and Students are advised to go about their usual academic activities, maintain order and shun acts capable of causing rancour and chaos in and around the campus environment," the statement said.
The controversy began when the university management announced a new fee structure for the 2026/2027 academic session, which would have seen freshers pay N319,000 instead of the previous N110,000. The proposed hike, described by students as a 250 per cent increase, triggered immediate backlash. On Thursday, September 3, the Students Union Government declared an indefinite strike, directing all students to shun academic activities and embark on a peaceful demonstration to register their displeasure. A viral video from the protest showed student leaders questioning the rationale behind the increase in the current economic climate.
Following pressure from stakeholders, parents, and students, the university's management reversed the decision. In a statement by the Registrar, Mr Emmanuel Amaegbe, the institution announced that the fee structure for the 2025/2026 session would be retained for the 2026/2027 session. "We understand that the proposed increase may have caused concern among students, parents and stakeholders of the state. We appreciate your feedback during this period," the management said.
The government's directive did not provide details of the new fee structure or disclose the circumstances that led to the suspension. It also did not indicate whether the controversial fee regime had been scrapped outright or would be subjected to further review and consultations with relevant stakeholders. With the latest directive, implementation of the new charges remains suspended pending further action by the state government and the university management. The government consequently appealed to students and other members of the university community to remain peaceful and refrain from any action capable of disrupting academic activities on campus.
The development is expected to ease growing concerns within the university community and avert possible disruption of academic activities over the reported increase in fees. However, the suspension of the fee hike and the reversal of the proposed charges represent a significant victory for the students and a clear signal that public outcry and organised protest can force institutional change.
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