The Great Ife Students’ Union of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), located in Ile-Ife, Osun State, has strongly criticized the ongoing electricity rationing in the university’s hostels, describing the situation as “impromptu, rough, rash, and utterly disturbing.”
In a statement signed by Omoboriowo Damilola Isaac and Babatimehin Kínfẹ́ọsi, the Union’s President and Secretary General respectively, students living in hostels such as Akintola Hall and ETF have been severely affected by the erratic power supply. The statement highlighted that the electricity rationing is unjustifiable, especially given the sharp increase in hostel fees for the current academic session.
“This development is indefensible, particularly since students were burdened with exorbitant hostel fees under the promise of improved amenities, including uninterrupted electricity,” the statement read.
The Union expressed disappointment in the university management, accusing it of failing to deliver on its commitments. “The fee hike was rationalized by citing the country’s economic realities, with assurances of better facilities. However, what we are currently witnessing is nothing short of betrayal,” the Union said.
To address these challenges, the Students’ Union issued three key demands: the immediate restoration of uninterrupted electricity, an explanation for the ongoing power rationing, and an overall improvement in service delivery across all hostels.
“The university authorities must urgently ensure the restoration of steady electricity supply to all halls of residence,” the Union stated. They also warned that failure to meet these demands would prompt decisive action.
“If these issues are not resolved swiftly, we will have no option but to initiate peaceful protests and engage relevant authorities to protect the rights and welfare of students,” the statement continued.
Reaffirming their dedication to the students’ well-being, the Union declared, “Enough is enough. The Great Ife Students’ Union remains steadfast in defending the interests and welfare of all Great Ife students.”
Many students have expressed dissatisfaction with the university’s inability to fulfil the promises tied to the hostel fee hike. “Together, we will stand against oppression and demand the standard of living we deserve,” the Union concluded.
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