Gbegnu Boknu Yako Condemns Protest By a Group Against FUT Minna

By YM Bina

The Gbegnu Boknu Yako Association (GBY), a Pan Gbagyi Socio-cultural group has expressed its strong condemnation of the recent protest staged by the convener of the so-called Concerned Nigerlites Forum against the Federal University of Technology (FUT) Minna, over the purported ownership tussle of the Bosso Campus between the Federal and Niger State Government.

In a statement issued by the President, Gbegnu Boknu Yako Association Niger State, Bako Wakili Bosso in Minna, said

“We find the protest not only ill-timed but also grossly misinformed, misleading, and clearly driven by ulterior political motives rather than genuine concern for the development of education or the well-being of Nigerlites”.

He emphasized that the Federal University of Technology, Minna remains a federal institution established by law, and any issues relating to land or ownership are best addressed through appropriate legal and governmental channels—not through incitement of public unrest and sensational activism.

“Of particular concern is the unwarranted call for the sacking of the Vice Chancellor of the University. We view this demand as baseless, malicious, and politically motivated. The Vice Chancellor should not be dragged into matters that are administrative and jurisdictional in nature, especially when there is no evidence of wrongdoing or misconduct on his part. Such calls are not only unjust but also capable of undermining the stability and academic progress of the institution”.

“The Association is not unaware of the antecedents of the protest convener, who has, over time, built a reputation for engaging in what can best be described as “commercial activism”—a pattern of stirring public sentiment under the guise of advocacy, only to subsequently benefit from political patronage and appointments. This trend is unfortunate and does a disservice to genuine civic engagement and public trust.

“We therefore categorically reject and condemn the protest in its entirety. We call on the good people of Niger State and the wider public to disregard the actions and claims of the protest organizers, as they do not reflect the collective interest of the people”.

Bako Wakili Bosso urged stakeholders to remain calm and allow due process, dialogue, and lawful engagement between the Federal and State Governments to resolve any outstanding issues amicably.

The President noted that the Institutions of higher learning must be protected from unnecessary politicization that could disrupt their core mandate of teaching, research, and community development.

The Gbegnu Boknu Yako Association remains committed to promoting peace, unity, and constructive engagement in matters affecting our state and nation.