OAU Kilonshele News Outfit

Adeniran Tolulope Students might have come across a social media graphics where the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS , indicated its interest in holding a Solidarity Walk to appreciate the Students' Loan Scheme which was recently signed into law by the Federal government of Nigeria. A question that have been the title of discussion among many students is " Should Nigerian students appreciate the FG's scheme of borrowing them money to finish their Education?" In June 2023, the Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government sent a first bill to the Senate, and later forwarded another a second time after a comprehensive review, before it was approved by the lawmakers in April 2024. Recall that the Students' Loan Scheme was part of the agenda of the Renewed Hope, which was the Campaign theme of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 General Elections. Many citizens viewed it as a strategy to win the election at first, but unlike previous admini

  Edun Precious Oluwatomisin, Oguntade Adedoyin    On November 6, 2023, the Student Union, in conjunction with Uniconne commenced the operation of a transportation bus for students. The union shuttle kicked off by operating between bus stop and campus gate. The plan was to expand its operations to Damico and Road 7. Unfortunately, the Union Shuttle stopped operations abruptly with no information given to students as to why it stopped. The CEO of Uniconne, Mr John Alade, while answering questions regarding the union shuttle, noted that the system has been crippled majorly due to the involvement of the conventional transport system. He further explained that the town and gown relationship, which is the communities of the University town, is important to the school, as it involves the non-academic population and the University, and should not be severe. Mr John reiterated that the shuttle has caused a rift as students tend to use it more and have gradually moved away from usi

Emiola Oluwaseun Tunde Onakoya, the founder and convener of Chess in Slum, which started in 2015 with the aim to give a better life to children who live in the Makoko slum in Lagos (the world's largest slum). Chess in Slum has gathered and diverted the eyes of the world to the lack and poverty being experienced by the children in Makoko. But the vision is bigger, and chess has been the only way funds are being generated for the education and good living conditions of the kids. Mr. Tunde, the chess prodigy, kicked off his Guinness World Record journey yesterday, on the 17th of April, in the heart of New York City, with the intention to raise $1 million dollars to cater for children out of school in Africa. The #Chess Marathon for Change is expected to last for 58 hours. As of the time of filing this report, Tunde Onakoya, who is also dubbed as the King's Gambit, has gone 21 hours undefeated, while he has defeated New York chess master Shawn Martinez and 17 other rand

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem The Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, has announced the indefinite suspension of all mining activities within the premises of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), its teaching hospital complex (OAUTHC), and surrounding areas in Ile-Ife, Osun State. This decision follows investigations into suspected illegal mining operations in the vicinity. In a statement issued on his social media platforms, Alake stated that the ministry took decisive action after a meeting with the Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Prof. Adebayo Bamire, and the Chief Medical Director of OAUTHC, Prof. John Okeniyi. "Upon reports of illegal mining activities, we swiftly took action to investigate the allegations, which led to the suspension of all mining activities for further scrutiny," the minister said. The suspension order applies to all mining operations within the university campus, its teaching hospital complex, and surrounding environs until further notice. This move aims

Adeniran Tolulope Students living in Obafemi Awolowo Hall of Residence have again, lamented the unavailability of water in the hostel. A Twitter user staying in the hostel, @kollydee4, tweeted that the issue continued this semester despite the protest that was done last semester.  Recall that, On the night of March 5th, 2024, it was reported that the Residents of Obafemi Awolowo Hall of Residence protested the unavailability of water in the hostel . This led to a temporary solution from the Students' Union, who in turn provided a tank of water to fill the reservoir at the entrance gate. While the situation persists, the students staying in the hall are again clamoring for water. Speaking with OAU Kilonshele, a student noted that since there was no intervention from the school management yet, students have been fetching water from the well, since the semester began.   Meanwhile, there are three boreholes drilled inside the Hall, but none of the boreholes are being used. 

David Ogunlade  The Association of Campus Journalists, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), has officially announced the second edition of the ACJOAU-Adejumo Kabir Essay Contest. This year’s competition tackles a critical issue in education: “ Student Loan Scheme: A Solution to Persistent Underfunding in Tertiary Education or a Catalyst for Future Economic Strain? ” Prospective participants, who must be OAU students, must submit their essays, a word count of 1000-1200 alongside a scanned copy of their School ID Card or E-Portal page in separate PDF files to acjoau2015@gmail.com. The email’s subject line should be “ ACJOAU-Adejumo Kabir Essay Contest .” Techrave The contest offers cash prizes as follows: First Position: N30,000 Second Position: N20,000 Third Position: N10,000 Finalists will be selected and announced after the deadline. Prizes for the top 3 entries will be awarded at the 2024 International Campus Journalism Conference which is expected to hold in the first week

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem Following recent report of the Protest by residents of Awolowo Hall at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) over the lack of consistent water supply, there's a glimmer of hope as promised relief measures have been implemented. Residents of Awolowo Hall had taken to the porters lodge yesterday night to express their frustration with the worsening water situation, especially during the exam period. However, during the address of Chairman of Awolowo Hall to the angry students, a promise was made to engage with the Students Union to provide a tanker of water for the hostel. OAU Kilonshele, tracked the progress of this promise and confirmed its fulfillment. Last night, a tanker was observed supplying water to the reservoir outside the hall of residence, providing students with much-needed access to water and students were seen fetching water from the reservoir both last night and this morning. Additionally, there was further relief as the newly renovated

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem In a demonstration of frustration over the persistent water scarcity plaguing Awolowo Hall of Residence, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), residents of Awolowo Hall took to the porters' lodge last night to voice their grievances as the residents staged a protest at the porters' lodge this night, demanding immediate action to address the persistent water scarcity on campus. Speaking with OAU Kilonshele, a resident of Awolowo Hall voiced the collective sentiment, stating, "Since the beginning of this semester, the hall has been grappling with a lack of constant water supply. We are protesting to demand changes and questioning the school authorities, the Students Union, and the Awo Hall executive on why there hasn't been consistent water supply to the hall." Another resident, visibly distressed, lamented the daily challenges posed by the water shortage, disclosing, "I haven't been able to take a bath for three d

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem In an exclusive interview with OAU Kilonshele, Mr. Daniel Ogunkeye, a post-graduate student researcher and principal partner of a newly commissioned waste water treatment research hub at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), insights into the project's genesis, challenges, and future prospects were unveiled. Mr. Ogunkeye shed light on the significance of the project, stating, "The project commissioned today is a designed waste water treatment. It's a pilot plant." He elaborated on the project's inception, emphasizing the need to address the inadequate waste management systems prevalent in older buildings on campus, juxtaposed with newer facilities utilizing septic pits. As a solution, Mr. Ogunkeye spearheaded the establishment of a sewage treatment plant, with the ETF Hall serving as a pilot project. In addressing his role in facilitating the project, Mr. Ogunkeye remarked, "I am a Postgraduate student and the princi

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem  Towards addressing internal challenges, the Waste Water Research Hub was officially commissioned today at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof A.S Bamire. The hub, donated by Post-graduate student researcher and university alumnus, Mr. Ogunkeye Daniel Oladepo, aims to spearhead innovative solutions in wastewater treatment within the university premises. Supervised by the distinguished Prof (Mrs) E.F Aransiola from the Department of Chemical Engineering, the establishment of the research hub marks a pivotal moment in OAU's commitment to academic excellence and problem-solving. Speaking at the event, Vice-Chancellor Prof A.S Bamire expressed his elation towards the project, stating, "I am thrilled about the initiative showcased by Mr. Ogunkeye Daniel Oladepo and his team. This research hub is a testament to our dedication to identifying and addressing critical issues within our institution." Acknowledg

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem A memo purportedly issued by the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC) regarding the outbreak of Viral Haemorrhagic Fever (VHF) has sparked confusion among the public due to its misdated year of 2023. However, a conversation with OAUTHC's Head of Corporate Services, Oluwakemi Fasoto, confirmed the authenticity of the memo while clarifying the erroneous dating. The memo, bearing the reference number OAUTHC/CS/70/VOL.IV/302 dated 23rd February 2023, was addressed to all members of staff and heads of departments, raising alarm about the recent outbreak of Viral Haemorrhagic Fever attributed to Lassa fever within the nation. The memo highlighted the contagious and potentially life-threatening nature of VHF, emphasizing the importance of immediate precautionary measures to safeguard the safety and well-being of staff, patients, and visitors. The Management urged strict adherence to precautionary measures such as freq

Adeniran Tolulope   The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic Financial Crime Commission had convicted and Sentenced two Undergraduate students of Obafemi Awolowo University, to jail term for Internet Fraudulent activities. EFCC disclosed this on Tuesday on its X Handle. According to the statement released by the Enforcement agency, Gbolahan Adesina and Perekebena Micah, Undergraduates of Obafemi Awolowo University were pronounced guilty of a one-count charge. Recall that, On November 6th, 2023, 11 OAU Students were arraigned for engaging in Internet Fraudulent activities. Two of the students, Micah and Gbolahan pleaded not guilty to the charges, after which the Cases were adjourned. Consequently, after a re-arraignment on Tuesday, February 13th, they plead guilty to the amended charges read to them. The judge, Justice Ayo Emmanuel after listening to counsels therefore convicted and sentenced the two OAU Students, Gbolahan and Micah to one year of imprisonment without an opt

Adeniran Tolulope   A Veterinary technologist, Mr Olawuyi Olabode, has died as a result of a lion attack at the zoological garden on Monday. The staff was feeding the lions in their den before the lion resorted to devouring the lecturer. Other staff, who were present at the zoological garden, made efforts to stop the lion from causing further harm, but the efforts proved abortive as the lion already caused severe fatalities.   The vice Chancellor, Professor Bamire, upon hearing the incident, ended an ongoing meeting with other members of the University management.  Debunking earlier claims that the lion escaped into the campus environment, the P.R.O. stated that the lion was euthanized thereafter. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof Simeon Bamire, therefore ordered an investigation to be carried out into the incident to find out the cause of the incident. He sent a delegation to the families of the deceased to share the management's condolence with them and encourage them to take

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem The Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC) in Ile-Ife continues to be engulfed in turmoil as tensions escalate between the management and unpaid workers, amidst allegations of mismanagement and injustice surrounding the 2022 recruitment exercise. In a bid to address the growing concerns and misconceptions, the OAUTHC management issued a public statement shedding light on the recruitment process. According to the statement, the recruitment exercise was conducted under the direct supervision and guidance of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMoH&SW), Abuja.  However, the process was marred by disruptions caused by miscreants and armed protesters, who forcefully occupied hospital premises, obstructing the interview process and posing security threats. The management said Despite efforts by local security personnel to restore order, the situation escalated, prompting the FMoH&SW to issue a directive suspendi

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem On Tuesday's session at the House of Representatives, the Honourable representing the people of Ife Federal Constituency, Hon. Taofeek Abimbola Ajilesoro, spearheaded a motion addressing the distressing situation surrounding the abrupt termination of employment for recently hired staff at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC). The motion shed light on the circumstances under which these individuals were sacked, raising concerns about fairness, procedural transparency, and the significant impact on the affected employees and their families. Members of the HOR engaged in a robust discussion, expressing solidarity with the affected workers and advocating for a thorough investigation into the matter to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future. The motion emphasized the importance of upholding labour rights and ensuring due process in employment matters across all sectors.  Furthermore,

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem   The atmosphere at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC) turned tumultuous today as unpaid staff persisted in their demand for the settlement of 14-month overdue salaries. However, the scene took a distressing turn as tear gas canisters and gunfire echoed throughout the hospital premises in an attempt to disperse the protesting employees. In an unfortunate escalation of events, law enforcement officers deployed to manage the demonstration resorted to the use of tear gas, unleashing a cloud of noxious fumes within the hospital grounds. Shockingly, reports emerged of gunfire erupting amidst the chaos, further heightening tensions and instilling fear among the demonstrators. Video: Law Enforcement Officers shut gùn, tear gas into the air.   Among those affected, Mr. Odusanya Olusegun Abayomi, voiced the collective frustration, asserting, "We were committed to our work, we dedicated our resources to the work so our 14-mon

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem Samson Falope, speaking on behalf of the unpaid staff of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC) in Ile-Ife, Osun State, delivered a resolute message on Sunday, 11th February 2024. He highlighted the association's congress' key grievances and resolutions regarding recent developments within the institution. He expressed deep concern over what they perceive as an erosion of OAUTHC's identity under the leadership of CMD Prof. Okeniyi. They cited instances of anonymous releases and counter-releases regarding critical matters such as the "suitability test." The absence of official letterhead paper and the prevalence of unsigned memos have fueled suspicions, prompting the staff to question the legitimacy of information emanating from the institution. Furthermore, the staff vehemently opposed the proposed suitability test by the CMD, Prof. Okeniyi, asserting its incompatibility with Nigerian labor laws. They a

Habeebulah Salawu The lecture-free week is here, that period of the semester that comes only once and is a thunderous reminder that the exam period is right about the corner. A shared experience among a few students has been that the lecture-free week seems to fly very fast. What we chose to do with this information is our choice but the best would be for us to maximize this period before it flies away. Here are a few tips on how to make good use of this period ● Have an overview by creating a study system/timetable: The lecture-free week is limited and hence it is important to allocate the time available to specific studying activities as time management is all about assigning our tasks within a specified time or period. ● Prioritize: A big tip would be to assign importance or give more attention to how we approach some courses over others this may be because they carry more academic weight or to compensate for the mid-semester test, however, it is important to prepare, st

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has extended financial relief to disengaged staff members of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife. Addressing the aggrieved individuals who gathered at his Palace on Monday, Ooni Ogunwusi announced a donation of N10 million alongside 1,000 bags of rice. Expressing empathy towards the disengaged workers, the monarch assured them of his commitment to addressing the crisis, stating, "It is your right to fight and agitate because injustice has been done to you all, but I want you to apply wisdom to achieve beneficial results." Emphasizing his dedication to resolving the issue, he pledged the support of both himself and the ancient throne of Oduduwa, declaring, "I am dedicating myself and the ancient throne of Oduduwa to fight this fight to a logical conclusion." Ooni Ogunwusi commended the demonstrators for upholding the core Omoluabi eth

Rt. Hon. Akinyode OYEWUSI, Deputy Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, took charge as he led a delegation from Ife Federal Constituency to engage with the recently sacked staff at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTHC). In his address to the protesters, Hon. OYEWUSI commended their peaceful demonstration in response to the disengagement and unpaid salaries spanning over 14 months. The Deputy Speaker assured them that efforts were underway to address the situation. During the meeting, Hon. OYEWUSI and his team also had discussions with Dr. John Okeniyi, the Chief Medical Director of OAUTHC, in an attempt to find common ground regarding staff disengagement. Hon. OYEWUSI urged the protesters to remain calm, emphasizing ongoing efforts at the federal level with Hon. Taofeek Ajilesoro (MHR Ife Federal Constituency) and Sen. Francis Fadahunsi (Senator representing Ife/Ijesha Senatorial District). Furthermore, Hon. OYEWUSI stated that the entire Osun State H

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem The management of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTHC) has disclosed a recruitment scandal involving the immediate past top echelons of the institution, leading to a crisis within the hospital complex. The revelation comes amidst protests by approximately 1500 sacked workers who have picketed the hospital premises, demanding the withdrawal of their dismissal letters and payment of arrears. According to a statement issued by the hospital's management, through the Public Relations Officer, Kemi Fasoto, which was made available on its website, senior officers, including the erstwhile Acting Chief Medical Director, Acting Director of Administration, and Head of Establishment, were suspended for illegal recruitment practices. The statement alleges that some of these officers even engaged in inappropriate conduct, including sleeping with female workers in exchange for employment. Read also: OAUTHC CMD ACCUSES PREDECESSOR OF UNLAWFUL

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem The National Association of Food Science and Technology Students, Obafemi Awolowo University (NAFSTS OAU) Chapter, clinched three top prizes on Friday at the Quiz competition held during the Food Week event organized by the National Association of Food Science and Technology Students, University of Osun State. The event, themed 'Food sustainability, the role of food science and technology,' unfolded at the prestigious Olagunsoye Oyinlola Hall. Representing NAFSTS OAU at the inter-varsity competition hosted by Osun State University, Osogbo, the team showcased exceptional knowledge and expertise.  Participants from NAFSTS OAU included Alabi Justice (Part 4), Abisoye Oyinkansola (Part 5), Oluwatola Joshua (Part 5), Oladepo Deborah (Part 3), Adebayo Ifeoluwa (Part 3), led by the NAFSTS OAU President, Oduwaiye Clinton (Part 5). Facing off against the representatives of the host school, NAFSTS OAU emerged victorious, securing all prizes across vario

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem Prof John Okeniyi, The Chief Medical Director of Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC), has accused his formrr CMD, Dr Olumuyiwa Owojuyigbe, of violating due process in the recruitment waiver approved for the hospital. Speaking at an online press conference on Friday, Okeniyi disclosed that a waiver to recruit 450 staff was obtained from the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. However, Okeniyi alleged that the previous administration had engaged in illegal recruitment, hiring a staggering 2,423 personnel instead of the approved 450. He claimed that the recruitment process lacked due diligence, with many appointed individuals not meeting basic qualifications or National Youth Service Corps requirements. The CMD pointed out that the majority of the recruits had not been interviewed, and screening was conducted without valid applications. He asserted instances of abuse of womanhood and dehumanization through sexual favors

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem Employees of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC) continued their protest for the second consecutive day, with a notable interlude for Jumu'ah prayer at the protest ground. The ongoing demonstration, triggered by months of enduring work without pay, has brought attention to the financial struggles faced by the embattled staff members. The protesters, undeterred by the challenges they face, assembled in front of OAUTHC, where they observed the Jumu'ah prayer as a collective expression of unity and determination. The protest, which began on Thursday, saw the protesters wielding placards with compelling messages such as "Pay us our salary OAUTHC" and "Our demand is clear. Pay our 14 months' salary." These slogans reflect the depth of frustration and the unwavering call for justice among the unpaid staff. Notably, the struggle and demonstration were sustained until late into the night yesterday,

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC) is grappling with a crisis as the Association of Unpaid Staff (AOUS) releases a communique in response to the management's reaction following a peaceful protest regarding the non-payment of fourteen months' salary. In the wake of yesterday's demonstration by disgruntled workers, who endured several months without pay, the Association of Unpaid Staff (AOUS) has issued a communique challenging the explanations given by OAUTHC management. The core concern expressed by AOUS revolves around broader issues in the Nigerian educational system, specifically questioning the credibility of professors and leadership roles in health institutions. The controversy deepens with the Chief Medical Director, Mr. Okeniyi John, being at the center of the storm. AOUS questions the legality of the employment of 2,054 individuals since June 2022, asserting that some were paid while others were left wit

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem Some of the embattled staff members at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC) were seen protesting on Thursday after enduring several months of working without pay. The disgruntled workers, holding placards with compelling inscriptions, voiced their demands on the hospital's premises. The placards bore messages such as “Pay us our salary OAUTHC,” “Our demand is clear. Pay our 14 months salary,” “Our 14-month salary or nothing else,” “Say no to injustice,” and “We own this country together.” These expressions reflect the deep-seated discontent among the affected staff members, highlighting their financial struggles and a call for justice. This protest follows a recent report by OAU Kilonshele, which detailed the termination of employment for more than 2,000 individuals by the management of Obafemi Awolowo Teaching Hospital Complex. The terminations were reportedly linked to fraudulent activities related to jo

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem The management of Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC) has terminated the employment of over 2,000 individuals purportedly engaged in fraudulent activities related to job racketeering between 2022 and 2023. The decision to sack these health workers is based on an alleged violation of Section 100401 of the Public Service Rules. The management revealed that despite obtaining a waiver from the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, to employ 450 health workers, the recruitment process was tainted by rampant job racketeering. A memo released with reference number OAUTHC/160/VOL.II/272 and signed by Acting Director of Administration, Mr O.O OMONIJE, outlined that a Fact-Finding Panel from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare conducted official investigations between September 11th and 15th, 2023. The probe exposed irregularities, including recruitment outside the approved waiver and nume

Orisatoye Aminat Photo Credit: ACJOAU The Africa Foundation for Young Media Professionals has, on Saturday 27th January, held a one-day seminar for aspiring journalists, in conjunction with the Association of Campus Journalists, Obafemi Awolowo University. This seminar was organized to train 40 campus journalists on how to safeguard themselves when reporting. While delivering his speech, AFYMP Executive Director Yinka Olaito explained what Safety is and the importance of safety when reporting an event. He said, 'Safety is based on taking precautions'. He enjoined members of the Association of Campus Journalists, OAU to always take all the necessary precautions while reporting.  As stated by the AFYMP Executive Director, Yinka Olaito, he noted that a journalist must be vigilant and collaborative. He added 'As a Journalist, think about your safety before you cover an event'. He advised the student journalists to have full knowledge about themselves; their Health s