Lagos, Nigeria – Police in Lagos State have arrested 32 suspects following a violent incident at the Federal College of Education (Technical) in Akoka. The clash arose during a mediation attempt by a Ministry of Education team, aimed at resolving a prolonged conflict between staff and the Provost, who had been barred from his office. The situation escalated when staff and students attacked the team, resulting in property damage and blockades at the college entrances.
SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, addressed the incident following reports of police using force during the protests. An individual known as #TomisinWhyte raised concerns about police actions on social media, prompting Hundeyin to clarify that the police intervention was necessary to restore peace and order.
Hundeyin elaborated on the events, noting that the staff had prevented the Provost from accessing his office for months. The Minister of Education had dispatched a team to mediate the conflict, only to be met with aggression from college staff and students. In response to the violence, the police were called in to disperse the rioters and restore calm, leading to the arrest of 32 suspects.
The situation at the Federal College of Education (Technical) involved vandalism of vehicles and the Provost’s quarters, as well as the blockade of college entrances. Despite facing resistance from the rioters, the police were able to secure the area and ensure that peace was maintained. Authorities from the Nigeria Police Force remained at the scene to safeguard the restored peace and prevent any further disruptions.
For more information on the incident, a video link has been provided for further viewing. The clashes at the Federal College of Education (Technical) underscore the challenges faced by institutions in resolving internal conflicts and maintaining order on campus. It serves as a reminder of the importance of peaceful dialogue and the role of law enforcement in upholding public safety.