Tensions Resurface At OAU Over 1999 Student Killings

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife witnessed a heated protest on Monday as students expelled representatives of former Vice Chancellor Professor Wale Omole during an orientation program for new students.

This incident highlighted ongoing tensions related to the tragic cult-related killings of five students at the university in 1999.

The protest started when a delegation led by the Laaroke of Wanikin, Oba ‘Kole Ojutalayo, arrived at Oduduwa Hall to represent the Omole Foundation at the orientation event. As they entered the venue, students, backed by the Student Union (SU) leadership, confronted them with Aluta chants, demanding that the representatives leave.

The students expressed their belief that Omole and his associates did not have the moral authority to speak to the students, citing their alleged connections to the brutal murders of George Iwilade, known as Afrika, and four other students from the institution. They insisted that the events of 1999 still heavily influence OAU’s history, claiming that Professor Omole was involved in the circumstances surrounding these killings.

The outrage among the students was evident as they expressed their anger and frustration, indicating that the wounds of the past remain unhealed. Confirming the students’ actions, Aka Daniel, the Public Relations Officer of the Student Union, stated, “The students chased out the representatives because of suspicions that he may have had something to do with the 1999 incident.”

In response, the university’s spokesperson, Abiodun Olanrewaju, condemned the students’ actions, expressing disapproval of the protest. Olanrewaju remarked, “It is so unfortunate that the students do not understand the difference between the Omole Foundation and the person of the VC. It was his foundation that was in school today, and they were chased out.”

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