Shayo is Coming, John is Here: OAU’s Second Semester Political Palava

By: Pelumi Adeoye

As the second semester begins at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), the focus quickly shifts from lectures and labs to loudspeakers and loud promises. Yes—it’s political season again. The academic calendar may say "school," but the energy on campus says "campaign."

Everywhere you turn—from hostel corridors to lecture theatres—the signs are clear: student elections are near. Campaign posters compete for space on walls, handbills change hands like hot bread, and aspirants greet everyone with practiced smiles and catchy slogans. Some faces are familiar; others are fresh. But all of them want the same thing—your vote.

What makes this period stand out is how it transforms the entire campus into a mini-political arena. No area is spared. Campaign teams move in groups, sometimes chanting, singing, always announcing the greatness of their candidates. Debates are held, manifestos are shared, and campaign shirts become part of everyday fashion. Whether you're involved or not, you can’t escape the buzz.

But it’s not just noise and drama. For many students, this is serious business. The elections are not just about titles—they’re about representation, accountability, and change. Candidates speak on issues like poor hostel facilities, class overcrowding, academic delays, transportation, and campus security. They promise solutions, propose ideas, and try to win hearts and minds.

Still, it’s not always smooth sailing. Some students feel overwhelmed by the politics. There are talks of bias, favouritism, and even “godfatherism.” Others worry that student politics sometimes mirrors the worst parts of national politics—plenty of talk, not enough action.

Yet, despite the concerns, the political season remains one of the most engaging times on campus. It’s a time when students remember they have a voice. A time when leadership is tested, alliances are formed, and friendships are sometimes broken. It's also a time of learning about negotiation, public speaking, teamwork, and how democracy really works.

In the middle of it all, one thing is clear: the OAU political season is more than just palava—it’s a mirror of leadership potential. And while “Shayo is coming” and “John is here” might be campaign slogans that sound funny, the outcomes of this season will affect the student body long after the campaign songs fade.

So as the semester rolls on and election day draws near, students must ask themselves: beyond the vibes and volume, who truly deserves the vote?