The Senate of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has directed all students to proceed on a three-week mid-semester break with immediate effect following protests that disrupted activities on campus.
In a press statement by the University’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, the management said the decision became necessary after student protests over a newly introduced transportation system “escalated into unruly conduct, including the obstruction of major access roads and harassment of other road users.”
According to the statement, efforts to engage the students and appeal for calm failed to yield results, with the situation continuing to “pose concerns for the safety and well-being of members of the University community in particular and the public in general.”
Consequently, the Senate directed the University management to ask all students to vacate their halls of residence immediately. The three-week break, Olarewaju said, is aimed at “restoring order, ensuring safety and creating an enabling environment for meaningful dialogue.”
Olarewaju stressed that during the break, the University management will continue to engage relevant stakeholders to address the concerns raised and ensure normalcy is restored on campus.
Parents and guardians have been advised to take note of the development and make necessary arrangements for their children and wards. Students were also enjoined to “remain law-abiding and use this period responsibly.”
Olarewaju reaffirmed the University’s commitment to student welfare and to maintaining a peaceful and conducive academic environment, adding that further updates will be communicated as appropriate.