In response to the growing insecurity affecting student communities in Ile-Ife, the Osun State Governor has pledged to immediately deploy additional police officers and intensify patrol operations. This commitment follows a peaceful protest organised by the Great Ife Students’ Union.
A recent surge in criminal activities, including kidnappings, armed robberies, and assaults targeting students living off-campus prompted the demonstration, which took place on Tuesday, October 29, 2025. The protest coincided with the Governor’s visit to Ile-Ife for an inspection of the Lagere flyover project and a courtesy call on the Ooni of Ife.
According to a statement from the Union, students gathered to express their deep concern over the deteriorating security conditions in student residential areas, urging for swift and lasting government intervention.
In a show of engagement, the Governor stepped down from his convoy to address the protesters directly, acknowledging the urgency of their concerns. He assured the students that concrete actions would be taken to restore safety and public confidence around the university’s host community.
Among the commitments made by the Governor were:
- Deployment of Additional Police Personnel: The immediate posting of more officers to the Ife Area Command to enhance the security presence in student-dominated neighbourhoods.
- Increased Patrols in Vulnerable Areas: Consistent and reinforced patrol operations to deter criminal elements and ensure a prompt response to emergencies.
- Comprehensive Security Review: The Governor’s Special Adviser on Security Matters has been tasked with compiling a full report on all security-related incidents affecting students and recommending actionable interventions.
These measures, according to the Great Ife Students’ Union, represent a promising response to their long-standing advocacy for improved safety. Also, the Union emphasised that this outcome demonstrates the power of peaceful and united student activism in influencing governmental priorities.
‘We commend the determination of all Great Ife students who participated in the protest. Your voices were instrumental in prompting engagement from the state leadership,’ the statement read.
However, the Union stressed that it would closely monitor the government’s implementation of these promises. They urged authorities not to relent in their efforts to safeguard students’ lives and properties, warning that failure to act promptly could lead to further organised student actions.
‘We will not rest until tangible improvements are seen in the security landscape of Ile-Ife,’ the Union added.
In the meantime, students are advised to remain vigilant, avoid late-night activities in isolated areas, and promptly report any suspicious activities to security operatives and campus authorities.