The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has issued a stern warning to the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), cautioning the group against carrying out any form of protest or mobilisation within the university community.
In a statement signed by SUG President Comrade Adio James, General Secretary Alao Ayorinde, and Public Relations Officer Abiola David, the union made it clear that FUOYE remains an academic environment — not a playground for political or non-academic activities. The union’s message, shared widely across social media and local media platforms, described the proposed NYCN protest as “unwarranted and unacceptable.”
According to the SUG, any attempt by an external organisation to use the university as a ground for protest would be seen as a direct provocation and trespass on university property.
“The Federal University Oye-Ekiti is an academic environment dedicated to learning, research, and development, not a ground for political mobilisation or external agitation,” the statement read.
The SUG emphasised that it will work hand-in-hand with university management and relevant security agencies to prevent any unauthorised gatherings or protests that could disrupt the peace and order of the institution.
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Protecting Campus Peace and Academic Focus
The warning comes amid reports that the NYCN was planning a protest in Ekiti State, possibly using FUOYE as a gathering point. While the details of the proposed demonstration were unclear, the SUG made it known that it would not tolerate the use of the university environment for activities that could distract students or interfere with academic operations.
FUOYE’s SUG noted that over the past few years, the university has maintained an enviable record of peace and growth. It described FUOYE as “one of the fastest-growing universities in Nigeria” — a development made possible by the institution’s commitment to stability and academic excellence.
The union stressed that the current administration of the SUG is determined to sustain that peaceful atmosphere.
“We will not allow any external organisation to use our academic ground for protest or to incite students into joining causes that do not directly concern our welfare or academic progress,” the SUG declared.
The student body’s statement reflects growing awareness among Nigerian student leaders of the need to protect their campuses from unnecessary political interference. Many institutions have experienced disruptions and unrest in the past, often triggered by protests or politically motivated gatherings that spiral out of control.
By taking this stand early, the FUOYE SUG appears determined to avoid a repeat of such scenarios.
Autonomy and the Role of Student Leadership
Beyond the immediate concern about protests, the SUG’s response touches on a deeper issue — the autonomy of student governance and the right of students to determine what happens on their campus.
FUOYE’s student leaders reminded the public that they remain the sole representative voice of students in the university. Therefore, any group — whether political, social, or advocacy-based — must seek the consent of the SUG before attempting to engage the student population.
The union further explained that it supports constructive dialogue and peaceful advocacy on national and youth matters but insists that such must happen through the right channels and within the boundaries of university regulations.
This stance reflects a maturing sense of responsibility within the SUG, positioning it not just as a body for student welfare, but as a guardian of campus integrity and institutional reputation.
“We are not against youth activism,” the statement added, “but we cannot allow FUOYE to be used for activities that are not aligned with its academic mission or that could tarnish the image of our university.”
Why It Matters for FUOYE and Beyond
The SUG’s decision to publicly resist the NYCN’s planned protest sends a strong message about the importance of safeguarding Nigeria’s university environments from external disruptions.
- Academic Stability: By setting clear boundaries, FUOYE’s student leaders are reinforcing a culture of academic seriousness. Campuses thrive when they remain focused on learning, not politics.
- Reputation and Growth: FUOYE has consistently been recognised as a fast-growing institution. Maintaining order and discipline is crucial to attracting research grants, partnerships, and new students.
- Student Welfare: Protests — even when peaceful — can quickly turn chaotic. The SUG’s proactive communication helps protect students from unnecessary risk.
- Model for Other Universities: The union’s firm stance could inspire similar action across other Nigerian campuses facing pressures from external interest groups.
The broader implication is that Nigerian universities are becoming more conscious of the need to manage their internal affairs independently while balancing freedom of expression with institutional order.
Looking Ahead
As of now, the NYCN has not released any official response to the FUOYE SUG’s statement. However, it is expected that both bodies could seek a peaceful understanding to avoid confrontation.
For the SUG, the focus remains clear: ensuring that FUOYE continues to be a haven of learning, innovation, and youth development — not a battleground for external political interests.
The student leadership reiterated that any breach of this directive would be met with “necessary disciplinary and legal actions” in collaboration with the university authorities and security agencies.
Ultimately, FUOYE’s warning to the NYCN represents more than just a preventive statement — it highlights a growing movement of student leaders taking responsibility for preserving order and defining the culture within their institutions.
For the thousands of students who call FUOYE home, the message is reassuring: the university remains committed to peace, stability, and academic excellence above all else.
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