OAU Students Plan Massive Protest, Threaten To Shut Down Campus Over Unmet Demands

The Great Ife Students’ Union at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, has resolved to embark on a large-scale protest that could effectively cripple movement within and around the campus.

The decision was reached during a congress held on April 7, 2026, at Awo Café, where students unanimously agreed to stage what they described as a “peaceful but firm” demonstration to press home their demands.

According to an official document signed by the union’s leadership, the protest is scheduled to begin as early as 6am on Tuesday, April 28, with students expected to block major roads and all entry points into the university.

The congress, which commenced at exactly 5:46pm, opened with prayers and the recital of the Great Ife Anthem, setting the tone for what later became a decisive and action-driven gathering.

In one of the key resolutions, the student body mandated the union leadership to take full charge of the protest, ensuring proper coordination and widespread participation. The move signals a unified front among students, many of whom have reportedly grown frustrated over lingering issues affecting their welfare and academic environment.

“The Students’ Union shall stage a peaceful demonstration… with the intention to block major roads and gates leading to the campus until our demands are met,” the resolution stated, underscoring the seriousness of the planned action.

To guarantee maximum turnout, the congress directed immediate sensitisation across all halls of residence, a strategy already set in motion shortly after the meeting ended at 6:40 p.m.

Despite the strong stance, the union emphasised that the protest would remain non-violent, aligning with what it described as the long-standing tradition of “orderly and responsible” demonstrations by Great Ife students.

Students and congress members were further urged to participate actively while maintaining discipline throughout the exercise.

The planned shutdown raises concerns about potential disruptions to academic activities and movement within Ile-Ife, especially if the protest attracts large numbers of participants as anticipated.

As of the time of filing this report, the university management has yet to publicly respond to the students’ resolutions or indicate whether any measures are being taken to address their demands or prevent the looming shutdown.(SaharaReporters)