The Great Ife Students’ Union of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has issued a stern warning against cultism and cult-like activities on campus, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to maintaining OAU’s reputation as a cultism-free institution. This warning comes in response to observed suspicious movements and activities by some individuals within the university community, raising concerns about a potential resurgence of cultism. The union’s leadership, represented by the President, Secretary General, and Public Relations Officer, jointly signed a statement unequivocally denouncing any form of cultism and reiterating their zero-tolerance policy towards such activities.
The union’s stance against cultism is deeply rooted in the tragic events of July 10, 1999, when a brutal cult attack claimed the lives of five students, including the then Secretary-General of the union, George Iwilade, popularly known as Afrika. This incident, which left an indelible mark on the OAU community, cemented the university’s resolve to eradicate cultism and uphold a culture of peace and security. The union leaders invoked the legacy of Afrika and the other slain students, emphasizing their commitment to preserving their memory and ensuring that their sacrifices were not in vain. They reminded the university community that OAU’s reputation as a cultism-free campus was hard-earned and must be protected at all costs.
The statement serves as a clear and unambiguous message to all members of the OAU community, both students and non-students, that any involvement in cultism or cult-like activities will not be tolerated. The union vowed to take swift and decisive action against anyone found engaging in such practices, ensuring that they face the full weight of the law. This firm stance underscores the union’s determination to maintain order and security on campus and prevent a recurrence of the tragic events of 1999. The message also calls for vigilance among students, urging them to report any suspicious behavior that could indicate cult activities.
The union’s proactive approach to combating cultism goes beyond mere pronouncements. Every year on July 10, the anniversary of the 1999 attack, the students’ union organizes commemorative events to honor the memory of the slain students and reaffirm their commitment to fighting cultism. These events serve as a powerful reminder of the dangers of cultism and reinforce the collective responsibility of the university community to maintain a safe and secure environment. The annual commemoration also serves as a platform to educate new students about the history of cultism on campus and the importance of resisting its influence.
The union’s recent warning highlights the ongoing vigilance required to prevent the resurgence of cultism. While OAU has maintained its reputation as a cultism-free institution for many years, the union recognizes the persistent threat posed by such activities. The statement emphasizes the importance of continuous vigilance and proactive measures to ensure that OAU remains a safe and conducive learning environment. The continued commitment of the student union, in collaboration with the university administration, is crucial in upholding this legacy.
The fight against cultism is not merely a security issue but also a cultural one. The union’s efforts are aimed at creating a campus culture that rejects violence and embraces peace. This involves promoting dialogue, fostering a sense of community, and empowering students to become active participants in maintaining a safe and secure environment. The union’s message is not just about preventing cultism; it is about building a positive and inclusive campus culture that celebrates diversity and encourages respect for all.
