by Adedayo Ademuwagun

The second semester is ongoing at the Osun State University. However, the main campus in Osogbo is now empty.

Students have fled the place in fear of possible violence during the gubernatorial election coming up this weekend. Most of them who are based in Lagos and other states outside Osun have travelled back to their base.

University staff say there was no official break; the students simply gave themselves a break.

One lecturer says, “The university has not announced a break. The students just said they would go home so that they won’t be around during the election. Even some staff are not on campus today. Everybody is concerned about their safety.

“But yesterday the students were still around. I still had some practicals with my students yesterday morning. So this morning I’m surprised to see the campus so dry. It is like the students just disappeared after their lectures yesterday.”

Joke, one of the few students who showed up on campus today says, “I came to school today because I have an issue with my studentship that I needed to sort out. I’m leaving today.”

Another student named Kayode says, “My father has ordered me home. Like the other students, I should not still be in Osogbo. Students and their parents are frightened about the election. That’s why everyone has gone home.”

The students are expected to return next week after the election so the semester can continue.

Kolapo Olapoju