IJAGUN, Nigeria — Tai Solarin University of Education, TASUED, has been temporarily closed following a violent clash between students and residents of the host community, Iwameje, in Ogun State.
The announcement was made on Sunday, May 28, 2023, by the university’s registrar, Dapo Oke.
Tensions escalated on Friday, May 26, 2023, after a 300-level student, suspected to be a cultist, was reportedly identified and attacked by community residents.
The student later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital.
In retaliation, members of his group embarked on a violent rampage, setting ablaze buildings that included the community head’s property and several student hostels.
“Following the recent clash between students and members of the University Host Community in the early hours of today, particularly, the Iwameje Community which led to the eruption of violence, the University Management hereby announces the closing down of the University,” said Oke in an official statement.
In an effort to quell the violence and restore normalcy, law enforcement agents, including police and soldiers, have been deployed to patrol the area.
As a precautionary measure, Oke advised parents and guardians, particularly those with children residing in and around the Iwameje area, to promptly recall their wards.
He also assured that the university’s management is actively collaborating with law enforcement to restore peace in the affected community.
This abrupt closure has further strained the relationship between the university and its host community.
It remains to be seen how the administration and the local community will work together to ensure the safety and stability of the academic environment in the aftermath of this violent confrontation.
