The management of Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU Ile-Ife, has ordered an immediate shutdown of the campus, directing students to vacate and proceed on a mid-semester break following escalating protests.
The decision was approved by the university’s (OAU) Senate after recent demonstrations by students over the newly introduced transportation system degenerated into unrest.
In a statement issued by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, the university said the development necessitated a temporary closure in the interest of safety and order.
According to the statement, the protests, which initially began as peaceful demonstrations, later escalated into unruly conduct, including the obstruction of major access roads and harassment of other road users.
The management noted that despite efforts to engage students and appeal for calm, the situation continued to pose risks to members of the university community and the general public.
The Senate, therefore, directed that students proceed on a three-week mid-semester break with immediate effect.
It stated that the break would provide an opportunity for the university to restore normalcy and create an enabling environment for meaningful dialogue with relevant stakeholders.
The management added that discussions would continue during the period to address the concerns raised by students, particularly issues surrounding the transportation system.
Parents and guardians were advised to take note of the development and make necessary arrangements for their wards.
Students were also urged to remain law-abiding and make responsible use of the break.
The university reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of students and the maintenance of a peaceful and conducive academic environment.
It added that further updates would be communicated as necessary.
