Students from state-owned universities in Ondo State have issued a 14-day ultimatum to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, demanding a swift resolution to the ongoing strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other related unions. This decision was made during a press briefing held in Akure by the National Association of Nigerian Students Joint Campus Committee (NANSJCC), Ondo State.

The chairman of NANSJCC, Comrade Mayomi Adeboye, explained that the ultimatum follows the suspension of a planned protest, which was called off due to the intervention of the National President of NANS and discussions with government representatives. Adeboye stated that the governor had reached out to the student leadership, assuring them that measures were being taken to address the concerns of the striking workers.

He emphasized the need for urgency, saying, "The NANS National President urged us to give the government a two-week ultimatum. If after two weeks the strike is not called off, we should return to the streets." Adeboye expressed frustration over the impact of the strike on students, highlighting that while the lecturers and non-teaching staff are the ones owed, it is the students who are suffering the consequences.

The situation has become dire for many students. Adeboye shared a personal story of a brother who lost a $67,000 scholarship due to the prolonged closure of schools. He noted that Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, has been on strike for over two months, while the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo, has been closed for one month.

In a show of solidarity, Folagbade Greetness, President of the AAUA Students’ Union, described the current circumstances as “unbearable.” She expressed the students' frustration, stating, "We are paying school fees and preparing for exams only for the strike to happen. This is getting too much. By next week, we will no longer accept pleas. It’s enough is enough."

Similarly, Adekunle Samuel, President of the UNIMED Students’ Union, indicated that students are approaching the two-week deadline with cautious optimism. He remarked, "We have shown government that when we want to act, we will. We can’t take it any longer. If nothing is done in two weeks, we will be back to demonstrate until students return to class."

The students have called on Governor Aiyedatiwa to prioritize their welfare and resolve the ongoing dispute to prevent further disruptions to their academic calendar. They have warned that if their demands are not met, NANS will mobilize nationwide to intensify their protests in Ondo State.