Students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), took to the streets on Thursday to voice their frustrations over the prolonged closure of their institution, which has lasted for 68 days due to an ongoing strike by university workers. The protest, organized by the Students’ Union Government (SUG), saw students blocking major roads around the university town, demanding an end to the industrial action that has disrupted their academic schedules.

The demonstration included the barricading of the university's main gate and surrounding roads, effectively halting traffic in the area. Students wielded placards with messages such as “Don’t waste our life and time” and “ASUU, NASU, NAAT, SSANU have mercy,” calling for urgent intervention from the government and university management to resolve the issues at hand.

Comrade Folagbade Ayoola, the SUG President, articulated the students' frustrations, stating that they had reached a breaking point after weeks of uncertainty regarding the resumption of classes. He highlighted the financial burden faced by students who continue to pay tuition fees while the lecturers, whose services they rely on, have reportedly not received their salaries. Ayoola emphasized the dire situation, saying, “We cannot keep silent because we are really facing challenges in our university.”

The SUG General Secretary, Oluwatimileyin Amos, added that the strike has left many students, particularly those in their final year, in a state of confusion as they await examinations and the completion of their programs. He voiced the collective sentiment of the students, stating, “This is an injury to one and an injury to all,” urging solidarity among students to amplify their demands.

Amos expressed concern over the uncertainty surrounding accommodation and personal arrangements, noting that students are unsure whether to stay in Akungba-Akoko or travel home. He called for immediate action to resolve the strike, stating, “We are not asking for too much. We just want to resume and continue our academic activities.”

The protest reflects a growing impatience among the students, who have engaged with university management and stakeholders in hopes of finding a resolution. However, repeated assurances have not led to any concrete outcomes, prompting the students to escalate their grievances publicly.

A 500-level student, Ogungbade James, echoed the urgent need for resolution, particularly for those nearing graduation, stressing that the ongoing strike has placed significant stress on students' academic and personal lives. He urged the authorities to act swiftly to allow students to return to campus and complete their studies without further delay.

As the protest continues, the students remain determined to make their voices heard, vowing to use all legitimate means to advocate for their rights and the resumption of academic activities at AAUA.