The University of Ilorin has finally awarded degrees to two former students, over a year after the Supreme Court ruled that withholding their degrees was “capricious, oppressive, illegal”.
Sixteen years ago, Lanre Akinola completed requirements for the award of a bachelor’s degree in statistics at the university.
However, his degree was withheld because he protested against military dictatorship in the country and unfavourable conditions on campus.
Two years after Akinola’s graduation came Rasheedat Adesina, who whose degree was also withheld for the same reason as Akinola – protesting.
The duo were finally awarded their degrees last month.
According to Akinola, in an interview with the Associated Press, withholding his degree impacted negatively on his career.
“It was a struggle. I got by with help from family and friends,” he stated.
He said he was finally able to get his ICAN in 2006 and now works with an accounting firm.