NAUS Calls for Investigation into Illegal Mining Activities on OAU Campus
The National Association of University Students (NAUS) has issued a strong condemnation against the illegal mining operations taking place within the premises of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) campus.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The National Association of University Students (NAUS) has strongly denounced the ongoing illegal mining operations within the premises of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) campus. In a joint statement issued by Akinyemi Hammed, Vice Chairman of NAUS in Osun state, Babalola Daniel, Deputy National President, and Eruobami Ayobami, National Security Director of NAUS, a thorough investigation into the matter has been urged with a demand for swift justice against the perpetrators.
Expressing solidarity with the university community and individuals directly impacted by these illicit activities, NAUS emphasized the grave threat posed to the safety, health, and overall well-being of thousands of students, faculty, and staff members. The recent revelations concerning illegal mining activities near the university's staff quarters and vital water sources have raised serious concerns regarding the sanctity of academia and the pursuit of knowledge.
"The sacredness of academia is violated when mining operations encroach on university property, endangering the quest for knowledge and enlightenment that academic institutions are designed to promote," stated the NAUS representatives.
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The association has called for immediate attention and decisive action from all relevant stakeholders, particularly urging the administration of OAU to prioritize the security and welfare of the student body. NAUS demands swift intervention to halt these unlawful activities and ensure accountability for those involved.
Furthermore, NAUS has implored the Federal Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Solid Minerals, and other pertinent organizations to launch a comprehensive inquiry into the matter. It is imperative, they argue, that those responsible for the illegal mining operations are identified and held accountable for their actions.
In addition to seeking domestic intervention, NAUS has appealed to international organizations to lend their expertise and support in addressing this urgent issue. The ramifications of illegal mining extend beyond the university campus, posing a threat to the surrounding environment and public health.
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"Working together is essential to ensuring that our universities remain bulwarks of knowledge and advancement, free from the scourge of illicit mining and other harmful operations," emphasized the statement.
NAUS reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to advocating for the welfare and rights of Nigerian students, pledging to closely monitor developments at OAU and take necessary actions to address the situation effectively.
