Parents Clash with Ekiti Nursing College Over Hostel Fee Hike

Tension is rising at the Ekiti State College of Nursing Sciences, Ado-Ekiti, as parents of students have called on Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the State House of Assembly, and the Commissioners for Education and Health to step in over what they describe as an “exorbitant” increase in hostel accommodation fees.

In a petition titled Exorbitant Hostel Bed Space at Ekiti State College of Nursing Sciences, the parents expressed frustration over a steep rise in the cost of bed spaces managed by BVERS Hostel and Suites, a private developer linked to the college.

According to the petition, parents were initially charged ₦40,000 per bed space in 2022. However, the fee was later increased to ₦100,000 after students resumed. Though they negotiated some relief at the time, they were shocked when, in September this year, students were moved to a new hostel and informed the fee had jumped to ₦280,000.

Despite engaging with the college management, the fee was only marginally reduced to ₦250,000. The parents argued that this rate remains unaffordable and have appealed to the state government to intervene. They proposed a revised rate of ₦150,000 per bed space, with no more than two students per room — citing the limited size of the rooms and the need to ensure the health and comfort of the students.

They further urged the governor to look into other proposed fee increases, stressing that education should remain accessible and affordable for all, especially given the current economic realities in the state.

“We believe in your administration’s commitment to student welfare and fair access to education,” the petition read. “We are confident that you will not support any policy that threatens these values.”

Responding to the situation, Professor Kayode Olabanji, Chief Medical Director of Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), explained that he had stepped in after receiving complaints. According to him, his involvement led to the reduction of the proposed fee from ₦280,000 to ₦250,000 and later ₦230,000. However, before a final resolution was reached, the matter was escalated to the Office of the Governor and the House of Assembly, prompting the formation of a panel to review the situation.

Some parents who spoke to Sunday Vanguard said they could accept the ₦230,000 rate — provided the hostels offer modern facilities and the number of students per room is capped at two. They also raised concerns about leaking roofs and the cramped nature of the rooms.

The situation remains unresolved, pending the outcome of the government’s review.