A combined team of some security agencies on Monday barricaded the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu to monitor proposed protests by the students of the institution.

No fewer than 20 vehicles belonging to the Police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were stationed at strategic positions in the school.

Confirming the development, the police spokesperson, SP Ebere Amaraizu, told News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the heavy presence of the security men at the polytechnic gate was to ensure that there were no breakdown of law and order.

Amaraizu said the command got the tip off on the planned protests by the aggrieved students over alleged hike in hostel fees.

“Our men are stationed at the entrance gate and other exits to ensure that there was no destruction of lives and property within and outside the school by the students.

“You know students, if they are not monitored, they can go out of control and police do not want any breakdown of law and order in the state.

“Whatever grievances they have should be settled through dialogue,” he said.

Meanwhile, a student who spoke to NAN under anonymity said that the students were protesting against an increase in hostel fees imposed on them by the school management as well as the deplorable state of the hostels.

“Our hostels are in a terrible condition and are not fit for habitation.

“The windows and doors are broken and there is no water in the school, yet they want to increase the fees,” the student complained. (NAN)

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