The year 2024 will forever be etched in the memories of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) community, marked by a series of harrowing events that left students and staff reeling from shock and grief.
From catastrophic occurrences to unexpected tragedies, the incidents that unfolded within this academic year reminded the university community of the fragility of life and the importance of solidarity in times of distress.
In this report, ACJOAU highlighted some of these occurrences which left profound impacts on the University community.
Poplat Filling Station explosion
A loud explosion leading to a fire outbreak at Poplat Filling Station, Lagere Ile-Ife on Tuesday, 9th of January left many severely injured including some OAU students and properties at a nearby private hostel destroyed.
It was confirmed that several OAU students were affected with injuries and properties razed with 90% being housed in the hostel. At the same time, the Students’ Union strived to ensure compensation for the affected students. Read more.
OAU Veterinary Technologist Killed by Lion
Monday, February 19 2024, was yet another tragic day that threw the university community into great shock and mourning as a Staff member got attacked and killed by a lion at the university’s zoo.
OAU 48th Convocation Highlights
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The staff member identified as Olabode Olawuyi, a veterinary technologist who has been in charge of the University’s zoological garden for over a decade, was unfortunately attacked while trying to feed the wild cat.
Other staff members who were at the scene, did everything within their power to rescue him but the lion had already caused severe fatalities….. Read more.
Rainstorm Collapses OAU Amphitheater Roof, Injures Four
On May 16, 2024, a rainstorm with a whirlwind struck OAU, causing the roof of the Amphitheater in Oduduwa Hall to collapse during a SER001 lecture. Four students were injured, with two transferred to the university teaching hospital for critical care and two treated at the campus health centre.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Adebayo Bamire visited the victims, assuring the university’s commitment to their safety. The Amphitheater was sealed off immediately for assessment, and normal activities resumed…. Read more.
ICYMI: OAU Management Maintains Silence on Festive Break
OAU Final-Year Student Crushed to Death
Esu Rita Ema, a Foreign Language final-year student of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), tragically lost her life on Thursday, August 22, 2024, after being hit by a Lexus SUV near the university’s main gate. The accident occurred at 11:45 a.m. while she was crossing the Ife-Ibadan expressway to submit her final-year project.
The University Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olanrewaju confirmed that her remains were deposited at OAUTHC mortuary, and the driver of the vehicle was arrested. Vice-Chancellor Adebayo Bamire expressed condolences to her family, describing the loss as deeply tragic….. Read more.