OAU mid-semester break protest leads to three-week closure after students’ demonstration over new transport system turns disruptive

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

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The decision, approved by the University Senate with immediate effect on Tuesday, was confirmed in a statement issued by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju.

The university said the disruption escalated from student demonstrations into what it described as unruly conduct, prompting urgent intervention by management over safety concerns within the campus environment.

According to the statement, the protests led to the obstruction of major access roads and instances of harassment involving other road users within and around the university community.

“Following recent developments on campus, 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.

The management noted that attempts were made to engage protesting students and appeal for calm, but the situation persisted, raising concerns over the safety and well-being of both students and members of the public.

“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 and the public,” it added.

As part of the directive, students have been ordered to vacate their halls of residence without delay.

The university explained that the break would provide space to restore order on campus while also allowing for structured engagement with stakeholders to address the grievances raised.

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

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