Osun State Governor Adegboyega Oyetola has cautioned the indigenes of Ile Ife who are protesting the appointment of new Vice Chancellor for Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) to stop their protest forthwith which he said has breach the peace of the state.
Oyetola appealed to them to give peace a chance in the interest of all.
Oyetola in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ismail Omipidan, noted that universities is a sacred place and everything must be done to accord it that dignity.
He noted that though the state has no role in the choice of who becomes the Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, he has responsibility for the safety and security of the institution and its workers as the host Governor.
He urged all protesting citizens to exercise restraint and allow peace to reign.
He further said : “It is with heavy heart and a deep sense of concern that I call on the good people of Ile-Ife, especially those protesting over the choice of a new Vice Chancellor for Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, to stop further protest and give peace a chance.
“By their nature and functionality, universities are rules- and convention-based conservative institutions premised on academic and governance autonomy.
“If we have any reason to believe that these rules are circumvented, there are laid-down procedures to remedy such situations rather than resorting to self-help. We are known for peace in Osun. We must therefore not do anything to tarnish that enviable reputation, “ Oyetola added.
