Following protests by students of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, over transportation challenges, the institution’s management has directed students to proceed on a mid-semester break.
The students, under the leadership of the Great Ife Students’ Union, on Tuesday barricaded the university’s main entrance and the Ife-Ede road, blocking access to the campus for over five hours while protesting transportation difficulties and other welfare concerns.
In response, the university management, in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, announced that the University Senate had approved an immediate mid-semester break following recent developments on campus.
He explained that the decision became necessary after repeated protests over the newly introduced transportation system escalated into unruly conduct, including the obstruction of major access roads and harassment of road users.
“Despite efforts to engage and appeal for calm, the situation has continued to pose concerns for the safety and well-being of members of the University community in particular and the public in general,” the statement read.
“Consequently, and in the interest of restoring order, ensuring safety and creating an enabling environment for meaningful dialogue, Senate has directed the University Management to ask all students to proceed on a two-week break with immediate effect.”
The management added that during the break, it would continue to engage relevant stakeholders to address the concerns raised and restore normalcy on campus.
Parents and guardians were advised to make necessary arrangements for their wards, while students were urged to remain law-abiding and use the period responsibly.
The university reaffirmed its commitment to students’ welfare and maintaining a peaceful and conducive academic environment, adding that further updates would be communicated as necessary.
Elijah Adeyemi
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