Protest: OAU Management Shuts Campus, Orders Three-Week Mid-Semester Break

The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has directed students to proceed on a three-week mid-semester break following escalating protests over a newly introduced transportation system.

The decision, approved by the university’s Senate, takes immediate effect, according to a statement issued by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju.

The statement said the move became necessary after a series of student protests degenerated into what the management described as unruly conduct, including the obstruction of major access roads and harassment of other road users.

It noted that despite efforts by the university authorities to engage the protesting students and appeal for calm, the situation continued to raise concerns over the safety and well-being of members of the university community and the general public.

“In the interest of restoring order, ensuring safety and creating an enabling environment for meaningful dialogue, Senate has directed that all students proceed on a three-week mid-semester break with immediate effect,” the statement read.

The university management added that it would utilise the break period to engage relevant stakeholders with a view to addressing the concerns raised by the students and restoring normalcy on campus.

Parents and guardians were advised to take note of the development and make necessary arrangements for their children and wards, while students were urged to remain law-abiding and use the period responsibly.

OAU reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of students and the maintenance of a peaceful and conducive academic environment, assuring that further updates would be communicated as necessary.

Hafsoh Isiaq is a graduate of Linguistics. An avid writer committed to creative, high-quality research and news reportage. She has considerable experience in writing and reporting across a variety of platforms including print and online.