OAU students have expressed dissatisfaction with unresolved welfare and academic concerns during a peaceful demonstration that began at 6 am on April 28, 2026, with protesters blocking major roads and gates leading to the campus.

The action followed a formal resolution passed at a union congress held on Monday at Awo Café, where members approved the demonstration and committed to conducting it in line with the university's tradition of non violent protest.

In a statement signed by Students' Union President Adelani David and General Secretary Habeeb Oke Isa, the union outlined its position clearly.

"The demonstration shall be conducted peacefully and in line with the known tradition of Great Ife students for orderly and non violent protests," the resolution stated.

The protest was driven by a combination of grievances, including transportation challenges, accommodation concerns, and disruptions caused by the university's ongoing ePortal upgrade. Students reported being unable to register for courses or access academic results weeks into the semester, a situation the union described as unacceptable.

The union also raised alarm over the planned mid semester evacuation of students from Awolowo Hall Blocks 7 and 8 for renovation. In a separate statement issued on 25 April, the union rejected the move, citing inadequate notice and the absence of alternative accommodation arrangements.

"The Union categorically rejected the implementation of such an evacuation without adequate notice, proper planning, or the provision of alternative accommodation for affected students," it stated.

Videos from the protest showed large numbers of students marching and chanting at the university's main gate, with protesters maintaining that their goal was to have their lives return to normal.

The union, whilst reiterating its commitment to peaceful engagement, issued a firm warning to university management.

"We cannot continue to watch students suffer unnecessarily. The ball is now in the court of the University management to provide concrete, workable, and immediate solutions," it declared.