Edoba Omoregie, vice chancellor of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), engaged in a heated on-air argument with a radio presenter over allegations of a tuition fee hike at the institution.
In a viral video posted on X, Omoregie was heard raising his voice as the presenter questioned him about students’ complaints regarding significant increases in fees. The host had asked why medical students’ fees allegedly rose from about ₦85,000 to over ₦200,000, and arts students’ fees from ₦65,000 to over ₦180,000.
Omoregie pushed back forcefully, urging the journalist to verify his claims before going public.
“Before you dey say people, you find out before you use the word ‘jack’,” he said in pidgin.
He challenged the presenter’s evidence, asking:
“You’re a journalist — wetin you don go find out? How many students or parents who have paid these fees have you brought on air? I’ve been monitoring you. You used the word ‘jack up’; that is a judgemental statement.”
When the presenter insisted that parents were calling in to complain, the vice chancellor dismissed his claims.
“My friend, listen, we’re now in the digital age — don’t try to deceive the public,” Omoregie said.
“You’re talking a naked lie and you’re using the people.”
Credit: TheCable