It is strange that OAU students beat a colleague to death over alleged phone theft

Universities are supposed to be citadels of learning and civilised culture. That explains why students, upon graduation, are awarded certificates, having been found worthy in character and learning. The two must go together, and a divorce undermines the integrity of each.

It is therefore, strange to hear that students of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile -Ife, Osun State, beat their colleague to death for an alleged stealing. What happened to a criminal trial of the suspect under the due process of law?

The Part 5 deceased student was alleged to have stolen a phone at Awo Hall, and about 15 to 20 students descended on him, and with big stones and other dangerous objects, clobbered him to death. The university community must be ashamed of the conduct of such students who are not different from the uncultured barbarians down town. The university authority must therefore help the law enforcement agencies to fish out those involved in the criminal conduct, and ensure they face the consequences of their actions.If they fail, they would be lying to the whole world when they issue certificates to such students proclaiming they have been found worthy in learning and character.

We agree with the statement of the President of the Students Union (SU) who said: “What has just happened is most inhumane, Justice must be served accordingly, irrespective of who is involved.” We urge the SU president to collaborate with the school authorities and police to ensure that justice is served.