Students of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, took to the streets on Tuesday in a peaceful protest over ongoing welfare and academic challenges affecting the campus community.
The demonstration, organised by the Students’ Union, began in the early hours of the day, with a large number of students marching and chanting near the university’s main gate. Visuals from the scene showed protesters carrying placards and moving in groups, while maintaining order throughout the exercise.
The action followed a resolution reached during a congress held on Monday at Awo Café, where union members agreed to stage a protest in response to unresolved issues.
In a statement jointly signed by the Students’ Union President, Adelani David, and General Secretary, Habeeb Oke Isa, the leadership reiterated its commitment to peaceful engagement.
“The Students’ Union staged a peaceful demonstration on Tuesday, 28th April, 2026, at 6am, with the intention to block major roads and gates leading to the campus until our demands are met,” the statement read.
It added, “The demonstration shall be conducted peacefully and in line with the known tradition of Great Ife students for orderly and non-violent protests.”
The union also urged students to remain disciplined and responsible while participating, stressing the importance of maintaining order while voicing their concerns.
The protest comes amid growing dissatisfaction over several issues, including transportation difficulties, accommodation shortages, and delays caused by the ongoing upgrade of the university’s e-portal system.
In a separate statement issued on April 25, the union opposed plans to evacuate students from Awolowo Hall Blocks 7 and 8 for renovation, describing the move as poorly timed and lacking proper arrangements.
“The Union categorically rejected the implementation of such an evacuation without adequate notice, proper planning, or the provision of alternative accommodation for affected students,” the statement said.
The Students’ Union also criticised the e-portal upgrade, noting that many students have been unable to complete course registration or access their academic results weeks into the semester.
While reaffirming its commitment to peaceful dialogue, the union warned that urgent intervention from the university management is necessary to address the concerns and restore normal academic activities on campus.
