Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife witnessed a fiery protest on Monday as students forcefully ejected representatives of former Vice Chancellor Professor Wale Omole, who attended an orientation for new students on behalf of the Omole Foundation. The demonstration, led by the Student Union (SU), underscores unresolved anger over the tragic cult-related murders of five students, including George Iwilade, also known as Afrika, in 1999.
The protest erupted when a delegation led by the Laaroke of Wanikin, Oba ‘Kole Ojutalayo, arrived at Oduduwa Hall to represent the foundation. Upon their entry, students and SU leaders confronted the delegation, chanting Aluta slogans and demanding their departure. Demonstrators argued that Omole and his foundation lacked the moral right to engage with students, alleging unresolved suspicions surrounding his involvement in the events of 1999.
The demonstration highlighted the students’ continued frustration with a case that many feel has cast a dark shadow over OAU’s history. “The students chased out the representatives because of suspicions that he may have had something to do with the 1999 incident,” said Aka Daniel, the SU’s Public Relations Officer.
The institution’s spokesperson, Abiodun Olanrewaju, expressed regret over the students’ actions, stating, “It is unfortunate that the students do not understand the difference between the Omole Foundation and the individual of the former VC. The foundation was in attendance, not Professor Omole himself, and they were unfairly expelled.”
The protest reflects ongoing demands for accountability regarding the deaths of Iwilade and four others, symbolizing the wounds that still run deep in the university community.
