NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIAN STUDENTS,SOUTHWEST! NANS ZONE D.
The Top Management
Osun State Polytechnic,
Iree, Osun State, Nigeria.
Urgent Warning and Advisory on the Proposed Demolition of the Union Building!
I write to you with great concern regarding the proposed demolition of the Union Building and the decision to relocate the Students’ Union to an abandoned red block.
While I understand that the institution may have valid reasons for considering this action, I strongly urge the management to reconsider this decision in the best interest of the students, the union and the overall welfare of the polytechnic community.
1. The Significance of the Union Building:
The Students’ Union Building is more than just a structure, it is a symbol of student representation, leadership and democracy.
It serves as a meeting point for students, a center for advocacy and a hub for student-oriented activities that promote a healthy academic and social environment.
Over the years, the building has provided a functional space for student leaders to engage with the administration, articulate student grievances and organize programs that foster development.
Demolishing it without a well-thought-out and widely accepted alternative is tantamount to weakening the voice of the student body.
2. The Implications of Demolishing the Union Building:
If the demolition proceeds as planned, it could have serious consequences for the institution, such as:
✅ Student Unrest and Protest:The removal of such a vital student facility without adequate consultation or acceptable replacement could lead to dissatisfaction, protests and possible disruptions to academic activities.
✅ Weakening of Student Representation: Without a proper and strategically located office, student representatives may struggle to coordinate their activities, thereby diminishing the effectiveness of the Students’ Union Government (SUG)
✅ Loss of Historical and Institutional Identity: The Union Building holds historical significance for past and present students.
Its removal without due consideration could erode the rich legacy of student leadership in Osun State Polytechnic.
3. Concerns About the Proposed Red Block:
Assigning an abandoned red block as a replacement for the union building raises additional concerns, including:
✅ Structural Integrity Issues: If the building has been abandoned for a long time, there may be underlying safety hazards, including weak foundations, cracked walls, and roofing problems, which could pose risks to students and union executives.
✅ Inaccessibility and Poor Location: If the red block is far from the administrative buildings or student activity centers, it may hinder the proper functioning of the union, making it difficult for students to access their leaders.
✅ Lack of Facilities: Unlike the Union Building, which was built with the specific needs of the student body in mind, the red block may lack essential facilities such as office spaces, meeting halls or communication infrastructure.
4. Recommendations for a More Constructive Approach:
Rather than outright demolition and relocation to an unsuitable building, I propose the following alternatives for the consideration of the management:
1. *Renovation Over Demolition:* Instead of demolishing the Union Building, the management should consider renovating or expanding it to meet modern standards.
This would preserve its historical relevance while ensuring better functionality.
2. *Proper Consultation with Stakeholders:* The decision to relocate the Students’ Union should involve meaningful discussions with student representatives, staff and alumni to ensure that the best solution is reached collectively.
3. *Provision of a Purpose-Built Alternative:* If relocation is necessary, the school should provide a newly constructed or well-renovated building that meets the required standards for student leadership functions.
In Conclusion, Osun State Polytechnic is known for its commitment to academic excellence and student development.
The role of the Students’ Union in this mission cannot be overemphasized.
I strongly urge the management to reconsider the decision to demolish the Union Building without a clear and acceptable alternative.
A hasty decision on this matter could lead to tensions between the administration and the student body, which may negatively impact the institution’s reputation and stability.
I trust that the management will handle this issue with wisdom, fairness and a commitment to the well-being of students.
I look forward to seeing a decision that reflects the values of inclusivity, dialogue and long-term institutional growth.
With the spirit of comurado I hereby submit temporarily for now!!!
Yours in struggle!
ABUBAKAR MUSEFIU DAMILARE
(GOLDESON OF ZONE D)
Director Of Research NANS SW, ZONE D
08135270241
Osun State Polytechnic Iree, Nigeria!