OAU Declares Three-Week Break After Student Protests

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) has declared a three-week mid-semester break effective immediately after student protests concerning transport welfare issues on campus. The decision, approved by the university's Senate and communicated by Abiodun Olarewaju from the public relations office, was deemed necessary due to escalating demonstrations.

Students protested against a newly introduced transport system that obstructed major access roads and harassed road users, despite attempts to engage and calm the situation. The break aims to facilitate dialogue among stakeholders to restore normalcy on campus.

The OAU Student Union organized a large march demanding urgent action to address transport challenges, including delays linked to the school’s e-portal upgrade. Students criticized plans to evacuate Awolowo Hall and expressed concerns over disruptions to course registration and access.

The protests, which were peaceful but intent on blocking major roads, culminated in a shutdown of university activities.