Abeokuta, Ogun State — Governor Ibikunle Amosun has ordered the immediate closure of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) in response to ongoing student protests demanding a reduction in tuition fees. This decision follows a series of demonstrations that the governor deemed as threats to the peace of the state.
In early August, Amosun announced a reduction of fees across all state-owned tertiary institutions, which was positively received by students from other schools. However, OOU students expressed dissatisfaction, leading to protests that escalated into violence, with reports of police using tear gas and, in some cases, live ammunition to disperse crowds.
“The students are acting under the influence of external parties,” stated Taiwo Adeoluwa, Secretary to the State Government, highlighting that attempts to negotiate with the students had been unsuccessful. He urged parents to help restore order, emphasizing that the government would not tolerate disruptive behavior.
The protests reached a peak on August 15, prompting the governor to intervene personally. An ad-hoc committee was established to address the students’ concerns, but their demands for immediate fee reductions were deemed unrealistic, as the government cited a budgetary impact of approximately N2 billion.
In light of these events, Amosun announced the closure of all OOU campuses, stressing that it was necessary to safeguard students and local residents. “We urge all parents to impress upon their children the need to maintain peace in the interest of everyone involved,” he added.
As the situation unfolds, the governor’s administration remains firm on the position that security and stability in Ogun State must take precedence.
