Students of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, have declared a 72-hour lecture boycott over what they describe as a failing campus transportation system.
The protest, scheduled from April 14 to April 16, 2026, announced by the Students’ Union Government (SUG) following a congress and leadership meetings. According to student leaders, the decision comes after weeks of growing frustration. Over mobility challenges affecting daily activities and academic participation.
In a statement signed by SUG President Adelani David and Secretary-General Habeeb Okem Students directed to completely boycott all academic activities during the period. They argue that the recently introduced transport system. Linked to vehicles donated under a federal initiative—has worsened conditions instead of improving them.
Students cited key issues including insufficient buses, overcrowding, long waiting times, and poor route coverage across the large campus. Many say the situation has made it difficult to attend lectures on time. With some forced to walk long distances or miss classes entirely.
Students Demand Urgent Reforms, Better Implementation
The union is demanding immediate intervention from university authorities and relevant stakeholders to address the transport crisis. They insist that the current system is poorly implemented and does not meet the needs of the student population.
OAU, one of Nigeria’s largest and most populated universities, has long faced transport challenges due to its expansive campus layout. However, students say the latest arrangement has intensified the problem rather than solving it.
Education analysts note that transport crisis on campuses can significantly disrupt academic performance, especially in institutions where students rely heavily on shuttle systems.
While the university management has yet to issue an official response, pressure is mounting for a quick resolution. Students have warned that further actions may follow if their demands are not met.
As the boycott begins, academic activities at OAU are expected to be severely impacted, highlighting broader concerns about infrastructure and student welfare in Nigerian tertiary institutions.
