OAU Students Union Raises Alarm Over Fuel Price Surge, Threatens Protest
The Students’ Union of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) has voiced concern over the challenges students are facing due to the sudden surge in the pump price of fuel and its scarcity.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The Students’ Union of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) has issued a statement expressing grave concern over the unprecedented challenges faced by students due to the sudden surge in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and its scarcity. The union, led by President Abbas Ojo, called on the Federal Government to urgently address the issues to avert potential unrest.
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Since the weekend, queues have been observed at filling stations in Ogun and Lagos states, with some stations remaining closed. Reports indicate that PMS is being sold between N700 and N800 per litre, causing a ripple effect on transport fares and living expenses.This situation has exacerbated the economic burden on students, especially around the OAU campus in Ile-Ife, Osun State, where bus fares have increased.
President Abbas Ojo lamented the impact of the government's economic policies, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy announced by President Bola Tinubu in May 2023. He highlighted the adverse effects on students, including soaring living costs and the depreciation of the naira against the dollar.
The union demanded immediate action from the Federal Government to address the fuel scarcity, curb suspected hoarding, and regulate prices. Additionally, they urged the government to revive the country's refineries to mitigate future crises.
In a stern warning, the union stated that if the government fails to address their demands within the next 48 hours, they would mobilize students for a protest until the fuel crisis is resolved.
The OAU Students’ Union's call for action underscores the urgency of addressing the fuel price surge and scarcity, which pose a threat to students' academic pursuits and well-being.
