TheCable

A student has died in Kaduna, following a protest against tuition fee hike.

Students of Kaduna State College of Education, Gidan Waya, had taken to the streets on Monday, to protest the increase in their tuition fees by the state government.

While the students were protesting, security operatives had arrived at the venue of the demonstration.

It is not yet clear what led to the crisis that resulted in several persons sustaining injuries, but the Kaduna state government had denied deploying security operatives to “suppress” the protest.

In a statement on Monday, Samuel Aruwan, commissioner for internal affairs, who confirmed the development, said the state is investigating the incident.

Aruwan explained that some other students and security operatives sustained injuries, adding that Nasir el-Rufai, governor of Kaduna, has extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, while also wishing those injured speedy recoveries.

“The Kaduna State Government is awaiting full reports on Monday’s protest by students of the Kaduna State College of Education, Gidan Waya,” the statement reads.

“In the preliminary report received so far, one student lost his life and some others were wounded, while three security personnel also sustained injuries.

“The Governor of Kaduna state, Malam Nasir El-Rufai condoled the family of the student that lost his life, and wished the students and operatives who sustained injuries speedy recovery.

“The government of Kaduna State also wishes to debunk reports that it deployed security operatives to suppress protesting students. KDSG is awaiting briefings to enable it understand the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate violent incidence in Gidan Waya.

“At the time of this update, the Governor is awaiting reports from the military, police, DSS, the management of the institution, the student union as well as the traditional institution in the area.

“The government will publicise its findings after receipt of the expected reports.”