by Ojo Victoria Ayoolajesu
On the 3rd of May, being the World Press Free Day, the Union Of Campus Journalists, University of Ibadan embarked on a rally to advocate for press freedom, transparency, and accountability across various halls of residence in the university.
The convergence point for the rally was the Students’ Union Building (SUB), where approximately 30 press members gathered. At about 10:50 AM, the SUB jet transported the press members to Obafemi Awolowo Hall (OAH), the first stop on the rally trail.
Upon arrival the team gained entry with the permission of the porters. There, the President of the union as well as the Vice president (editorial) emphasised the critical role of a free press in upholding democracy within the university community.
Aduwo, a campus journalist, addressed prevailing misconceptions, making it clear that the press exists not to victimise but to amplify the students’ voice and ensure transparency and accountability.
From Awo Hall, the rally moved to Idia Hall, where the President, Aduwo and the Assistant General Secretary, all reiterated the press’s role as a vital partner in progress. The message remained consistent: the press is not an adversary but a pillar of the students’ union and an enabler of truth.
Independence Hall was the next stop.
There, Akanni, alongside the President, underscored the Students’ Union’s unwavering stance on press freedom, describing it as indispensable to the student body’s development.
The rally continued to other halls including Zik, Bello, and others, with enthusiastic reception. Each hall witnessed a brief but meaningful engagement within the hostels. However, Queen’s Hall did not permit the Union’s entry into their premises.
The rally came to a close at the university gate, where the press members and leaders addressed onlookers and passersby, reaffirming the rally’s core message. Throughout the rally, Fela Kuti’s iconic anthem, Je’n wi t’emi, played in the background, underscoring the theme of expression and resistance.
The UCJ UI rally was not just a demonstration—it was a powerful reminder that the freedom of the press is non-negotiable and must be defended as a cornerstone of student democracy.
