The name game

Students protest renaming of University of Lagos (Courtesy: osundefender.org)One of Nigeria’s best-known universities is embroiled in a row over its name. Students are protesting the renaming of University of Lagos to Moshood Abiola University. Abiola, a politician who died in custody during military rule, is seen by many as a hero, but students say they should have been consulted first. President Goodluck Jonathan said he renamed the university, dubbed Unilag, to mark Nigeria’s 13th year since its return to democracy and Abiola’s martyrdom.

Students say the move is an attempt by the president to score political points; the change of name will affect a reputation built up over five decades. “The name is our pride,” a protester told BBC.