Benue University Closes Amid Student Loan Protests

Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University in Makurdi was closed after students protested on March 23, 2023, regarding delays and inconsistencies in the disbursement of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). The university's registrar, John David, issued a memo declaring an immediate Easter break from March 23 to April 7, instructing students to vacate hostels by 6 PM on March 23.

Students expressed frustration over not receiving approved loan amounts, with some claiming they received less than expected or no funds at all. They demanded transparency regarding NELFUND payments, holding placards that read "No NELFUND, No Exam." The student union leadership urged for calm and peaceful protests, while the university management rejected claims of widespread non-payment, stating that 76 students had not received funds due to incomplete registration.

The NELFUND scheme, which is set to be formalized in April 2024, aims to provide interest-free loans to students in public tertiary institutions. The situation has heightened fears of further disruptions to the academic calendar.