NDC Presidential candidate, Peter Obi
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has criticised the reported increase in school fees at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, saying a Peter Obi-led administration would reverse what it described as the commercialisation of education in Nigeria.
The party’s National Spokesman, Osa Director, made the position known in a post on X on Thursday while reacting to reports that ABU increased fees for returning students for the 2026/2027 academic session.
According to him, the new fees reportedly range from N143,000 to N298,000, compared to between N62,000 and N84,000 paid by students during the previous academic session.
Osa Director blamed the development on the policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, arguing that many Nigerian families were already struggling with the rising cost of living and could no longer afford higher education expenses.
He said the reported increase would place an additional burden on working-class parents who depend on public universities to educate their children.
The NDC spokesman expressed sympathy with the affected students, saying they were bearing the consequences of what he called the government’s failed economic policies.
“We empathise with Nigerian students who are now bearing the brunt of the failed policies of the Tinubu-led administration,” he said.
The opposition party also assured young Nigerians that its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, would prioritise education if elected in 2027.
“We assure Nigerian youths that the administration of His Excellency Peter Obi, under a Nigeria Democratic Congress-led government, will build a prosperous economy, adequately fund our universities, and create an enabling environment for young people to thrive,” Osa Director stated.
He further urged eligible Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participate in the 2027 general election.
“Get your PVC and vote out this clueless government. Hold on for us, dear ABU students — help is on the way,” he added.
The reported fee adjustment at Ahmadu Bello University has generated public debate, with many students and parents expressing concern over the rising cost of tertiary education amid Nigeria’s economic challenges. The Federal Government has consistently maintained that ongoing reforms are aimed at strengthening the economy and improving public services, while opposition parties continue to argue that the policies have increased hardship for many Nigerians.
