OAU declares three-week mid-semester break after students’ protest

The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has directed students to proceed on a three-week mid-semester break following protests over transportation and welfare concerns on campus.

The institution’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, confirmed the development in a statement.

According to the statement, the decision was approved by the Senate after demonstrations by students escalated.

“The Senate of the University has approved that the students proceed on a mid-semester break for a period of three weeks, with immediate effect,” the statement read.

Olanrewaju added that the decision became necessary after a series of protests by students over the newly introduced transportation system escalated into unruly conduct, including the obstruction of major access roads and harassment of other 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.

“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.

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“During this period, the University Management will continue to engage relevant stakeholders to address the concerns raised and to ensure that normalcy is restored on campus.

“Accordingly, parents and guardians are kindly advised to take note of this development and make the necessary arrangements for their children and wards. Students are enjoined to remain law-abiding and use this period responsibly.

“The University remains committed to the welfare of its students and to maintaining a peaceful and conducive academic environment for all.

“Further updates will be communicated as appropriate,” he said.

The development came as students, led by the leadership of Great Ife Students’ Union, on Tuesday morning barricaded the main entrance of the school and the Ife-Ede road, blocking access to the university for over five hours to protest the hitches experienced in transportation and other welfare issues in the school.

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