The Osun State University Students’ Union, OSUSU, has released a video documentary highlighting what it describes as the “alarming cost and poor condition” of hostels across the university’s campuses.
The video, which includes a Yoruba-language sound bite lamenting the situation, showcases the struggles of students who are forced to pay exorbitant rent for accommodations that, according to the union, are often substandard and lack basic amenities.
In a press statement accompanying the release, OSUSU said:
“Education is a right, and decent shelter should never be treated as a luxury. Unfortunately, many hostels, despite being basic in structure and often lacking adequate facilities, are priced far beyond the financial reach of the average student. This situation is not only unfair but also a threat to the well-being and academic success of our student community.”
The union stressed that the video should not be seen as an attack on landlords or the university authorities but rather as a tool for advocacy and dialogue.
“This video is not an attack but an advocacy tool. Our intention is clear: to spark meaningful dialogue between students, landlords, and the university community and to have sustainable solutions to this crisis,” the statement continued.
The Students’ Union further called on all stakeholders to work towards a fairer and more transparent accommodation system, warning that the status quo is unsustainable.
“Together, we must push for more accessible, transparent, and reasonably priced accommodations for all students in Osun State University. This is our reality. It is our collective voice. We hope you listen.”
This intervention comes at a time of rising living costs across Nigeria, with students and their families struggling to balance tuition, feeding, and accommodation expenses.
The video release has already begun sparking discussions among students, parents, and members of the public, with many commending the Students’ Union for boldly addressing what has long been a silent crisis on campus.