By Favour Anthony <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Poor maintenance of off-campus hostels around Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, has become a growing concern among students, with many calling on landlords to improve the condition of their buildings and provide basic amenities that support comfortable living.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Several students who spoke to this reporter complained that although they pay substantial rent every academic session, many hostels suffer from inadequate water supply, faulty electrical fittings, poor sanitation, leaking roofs and insufficient security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A 400-level Political Science student, Miss Ruth Oghenerukevwe, said she has endured poor living conditions since moving into her hostel because she could not afford a more expensive apartment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to her, tenants have repeatedly informed the landlord about damaged facilities, but little has been done to address their complaints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
READ ALSO:<\/strong> First Lady Encourages Nigerian Youths to Explore Local Food Businesses<\/a> \u201cThe rooms are manageable, but the environment is not. We experience water shortages almost every week, and whenever it rains, some rooms get flooded because of leaking roofs. We have complained several times, but nothing has changed,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n She added that the poor condition of the hostel has affected students\u2019 health and academic performance, as many spend valuable study time searching for water or cleaning flooded rooms after heavy rainfall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another student resident, Samuel Oghenevweta, described poor waste disposal as one of the biggest challenges facing students living off campus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n He explained that refuse often remains uncollected for several days, creating offensive odours and attracting mosquitoes and other disease-carrying insects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n READ ALSO:<\/strong> DELSU Student Collapses in Overcrowded Library During MIA Examination \u201cSome compounds don\u2019t have proper waste bins, and the environment becomes dirty very quickly. It is unhealthy, especially during the rainy season,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Responding to the complaints, a landlord, Mr. Michael Akporido, acknowledged that some hostels require renovation but said the rising cost of building materials and labour has made maintenance difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n He explained that many property owners are carrying out repairs gradually as resources become available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWe are aware that students expect better facilities, but maintenance is expensive. We are trying our best to improve the buildings despite the economic challenges,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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