University of Ibadan Students' Union Press Conference

By Abraham Favour Olohigbe

 In a press conference held at the Student Representative Council (SRC) chamber of the University of Ibadan on January 14, 2023, the Student Union provided valuable insights into ongoing developments, and initiatives, and outlined plans within the union.

 The event, initially slated for 5:00 pm, commenced at 5:16 pm. Public Relations Officer Adeona Tosin Samuel expressed gratitude to the press members for attending and promptly declared the meeting open. Following this, press members and Student Union Representatives, including the president, the vice president, the House Secretary, and the Assistant General Secretary.

President Samuel Samson Tobiloba delivered the opening remarks, welcoming attendees and highlighting recent upgrades to facilities, disbursement of bursaries to six students, upcoming commencement of a boot camp, general welfare of the student, sharing of resumption packages including sporting activities being planned with other organizations. The floor was opened for questions, covering topics such as the reopening of the portal and late school fee payments, usage of the SRC chamber, the levying of certain fees despite the union's stance on not paying them, and the low level of trust that students have for the Union.

Responses to questions were rendered by the president and at some point, the vice president answered questions, with assurance that the Student Union chamber is open to all, albeit with a fee of two thousand naira for some students. Additionally, plans for a new town hall meeting were announced to address outstanding concerns. Also, the Union’s bus was said to be available to all students though the registration of the bus has not yet been completed.

 However, concerns were raised by the Union of Campus Journalists regarding perceived evasions in responses. The event concluded with President Samuel Samson Tobiloba's closing remarks at 7:00 pm, as he emphasized the union's openness to conversations aimed at enhancing the Union.