The Seals Cup Gets To Its Business End: As Second Round Showdown Commences

By Adeyemi Jerry

The seals cup competition which commenced on the 29th of September 2023 at the sub pitch were student came out in their numbers for the opening ceremony and the Seals Cup competition, which was won last year by the Department of Geography were they played the opening match against petroleum Engineering department in which they came out victorious.

The group stage of the seals cup competition has come to end and the 16 remaining teams are now gearing up for the round of 16. The group stage was full of surprises, with some big-name teams failing to qualify for the round of 16. Defending champion geography, Human kenetics and law could not make it to the round of 16. While The second runner-up struggled to qualify for the round of 16, but they managed to get the job done. They will all face difficult challenges in the round of 16.

Round of 16 preview:
Here is a preview of the round of 16 matches:

Educational management vs philososphy: The philosophers are the favorites to win this match, but the Educational management have a young and talented striker that is capable of an upset.

psychology vs chemistry: psychology are the clear favorites to win this match, but chemistry
are a well-organized team that is difficult to beat.

Sociology vs industrial petroleum engineering : Industrial petroleum engineering are the favorites to win this match, but sociolology are known for their compact defence and doggedness.

Mbbs vs microbiology: Mbbs are the favorites to win this match they have been outstanding but microbiology might pose a threat and they will be a tough opponent.

physiology vs laris: This is a close match to call, with both teams evenly matched. Laris are a skilled and technical team, while physiology are a physical and experienced team.

Statistics vs. Animal science: statistics are the favorites to win this match, but Animal science are a dangerous team that is capable of an upset.

forestry vs. computer sciences: This another close match to call, with both teams evenly matched. Computer science have a world-class player nicknamed Grealish, while forestry have a solid and well-balanced team.

Asse vs. political science: Asse are likely to come out victorious, but South Korea are a well-organized team that is difficult to beat.

The round of 16 is sure to be full of excitement and drama, with all of the teams evenly matched. The favorites will all be looking to advance to the quarterfinals, but the underdogs will be determined to cause an upset. It will be interesting to see which teams emerge victorious and book their place in the next round.

Israel's 6-hour window for Palestinians to flee Gaza elapse. What next?.

By Beatitude

A six-hour window issued by the Israeli military warning Palestinian civilians to finish evacuating from Gaza City to the southern part of the strip ended at 4 p.m. local time (9 a.m. ET) on Saturday.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) told residents to move toward the Gaza Valley, in a message posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. It is unclear how widely the messaging has been received on the ground given the current electricity and internet blackout.

The advisory from the Israeli military came a day after it told 1.1 million people living in northern Gaza to evacuate their homes. The IDF has saturated the border with troops and military equipment amid a relentless onslaught on the territory, in retaliation to a large-scale incursion by the militant group Hamas on October 7.

Earlier on Saturday, IDF spokesperson Lt. Col. Richard Hecht said Israel’s air, land and sea blockade on Gaza will continue into a seventh day. “We are preparing for the next stages,” he added, but shared no information if that could be a ground incursion and when.

The IDF’s Arabic spokesperson, Avishay Adraee, said the military will permit safe movement on specified streets between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. local time (3 to 9 a.m. ET). Residents were advised to use this window to move southward from Beit Hanoun to Khan Yunis. Additionally, residents of the Al-Shate, Al-Rimal and West Al-Zaytoun areas are “permitted to move” along Daldul and Al-Sana streets towards Salah Al-Din and Al-Bahr streets, Adraee said.

Communications blackout: Israel launched a complete blockade on food, fuel and water entering Gaza on Monday. Human Rights Watch (HRW) criticized Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant’s call for a complete siege on Monday as a form of “collective punishment” and a “war crime.” Thinning electricity supplies have severely damaged communication along the strip. In an interview with CNN, IDF Spokesperson, Maj. (Res.) Doron Spielman said the IDF is dropping leaflets about the new safe passages, given most people in Gaza City don’t have internet access now. However, CNN has talked to a United Nations Relief and Works Agency school official, a paramedic and a journalist on the ground who were all unaware of this latest advisory.

Explosion rocks evacuation route: CNN has geolocated and authenticated five videos from the scene of a large explosion along an evacuation route for civilians south of Gaza City. The videos show many dead bodies amid a scene of extensive destruction. Some of those bodies are on a flat-bed trailer that appears to have been used to carry people away from Gaza City. They include at least several children. There are also a number of badly burned and damaged cars. It is unclear what caused the widespread devastation; the explosion occurred on Salah Al-Deen street on Friday afternoon. CNN has reached out to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for comment on any airstrikes in the same location.

Evacuees killed: Hamas media office told CNN Israeli military airstrikes killed 70 and injured 200 evacuees in Gaza. The airstrikes hit evacuees at three locations: Salah Al-Din street, Sheikh Ahmed Yassin street, and near Wadi Gaza, Hamas said. Earlier, the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza confirmed that “large numbers” of dead and injured people, including women and children, arrived at Al-Shifa’ Hospital—located in Al-Rimal neighborhood —after they were shelled on their way from northern Gaza to the south.

UN shelters forced to relocate: The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) was forced to move its central operations from Gaza City to a location in southern Gaza following the Israeli evacuation warning issued on Friday. The agency warned that water is now “also running out” at its new location, as thousands of displaced civilians from northern Gaza continue to arrive.

“War crime”: On Friday, the Norwegian Refugee Council said Israel’s advisory for 1.1 million people living in northern Gaza to evacuate their homes – ahead of a potential ground invasion – would “amount to the war crime of forcible transfer.” The relocation advisory “must be reversed,” the Secretary General of the council Jan Egeland added. Egeland called Western and Arab Nations “who have influence over the Israeli political and military leadership” to “demand that the illegal and impossible order to relocate is immediately rescinded.”

Village Beauty: Before now, I used to think Zikhall is just an overhyped hall – Victoria Olayinka

By Ibn Yahweh

Miss Victoria Olayinka is a 200 level undergraduate of the University of Ibadan where she’s running a degree in Sociology. She’s passionate about the Tech world and plans to delve into it after graduation. She’s our guest for this week’s “Village Beauty.”

ZHPO: Welcome Miss Victoria. I thank you for honouring our invite.

Victoria: My pleasure.

ZHPO: Alright. Can you tell us about yourself?

Victoria: I’m Victoria. From the department of Sociology, 200 level.

ZHPO: Sociology! This is great. Can you tell us about your field?

Victoria: Okay. Sociology is the study of human society and how people interact with each other and their environments. It looks at the way social institutions like; families, schools, and governments shape individual behavior and influence society as a whole. Sociologists use research methods like surveys, interviews, and experiments to study these complex social dynamics. The goal is to gain a better understanding of society and how it can be improved. So, Sociology is basically about people, groups, and society.

ZHPO: Wow! Do you mind sharing?

Victoria: Everything. The course generally is interesting

ZHPO: Is it a field you’re passionate about?

Victoria: Yeah, actually.

ZHPO: Every admission seeker loves to apply for Law, Engineering, Medicine. Rarely do students apply for courses in Sociology. You’re unique. What drew you to Sociology?

Victoria: To be fair, I had no intention of studying Sociology. I had few courses to pick and I just chose it.

ZHPO: Really? This is interesting! And how’s been the study of Sociology for you?

Victoria: It’s been crazy and interesting so far.

ZHPO: Wow! Do you mind sharing?

Victoria: Everything. The course generally is interesting

ZHPO: Seems you have passion for the course. Alright every Unibadan student complains about UI and wahala. How’s been the stress? How do you manage it?

Victoria: Ha! Omo! The stress. Well, I don’t want to say I’m used to it. But this session wasn’t as stressful for me as my 100 level.

ZHPO: I can relate. How do you manage it? How do you juggle your academics with your social life?

Victoria: I’ll give my social life a 20/100 because I don’t party. But I make friends almost every day sha. So, it’s not really something I have to weigh with my academics.

ZHPO: Hmm! I guess you’re the conservative type, this is good.

Victoria: Thank you.

ZHPO: So do you have anything you do asides academics?

Victoria: Hmmmm…For now, nope. But definitely going into Tech before I graduate.

ZHPO: This is amazing! A Tech Sister in the making.

Victoria: Purrrr!

ZHPO: Many students have reservations about Zik hall. What do you think of the hall?

Victoria: Hmmm…(smiling) Zik! Zik! Should I be sincere?

ZHPO: What do you mean by “hmmm?” Okay be sincere.

Victoria: Okay. Before now, I used to think it’s just an overhyped hall. That it isn’t worth the whole hype. But then I think during the election, the way you guys coordinated and supported your own was mind-blowing. You guys are cooperative and I was opportuned to know that hall is planning to support people with their school fees. I mean that’s really really good!

ZHPO: This is quite interesting. This is the first time I’ll hear someone speak glowingly about Nnamdi Azikwe Hall.

Victoria: Really?

ZHPO: Yes. Many say, “Zik is bad.” ” Zik is a jungle.” You’re in 200 level. Soon, you’ll be in your finals. What will be your unforgettable experiences when you graduate?

Victoria: Going to SUB with my friends to watch match. Strolling to Awo stadium. I might miss going for classes and going to the Cafe.

ZHPO: Alright two more questions before draw the curtain.

Victoria: Okay. Let’s go.

ZHPO: Have you ever had any experience with Zikites when passing through the Zik hall?

Victoria: Yeah! Infact, yesterday.

ZHPO: Really? You mind sharing?

Victoria: Sure(laughing). So I was on a call with my mum when I passed the finalist block and she was telling that my uncle, I haven’t seen for like 8 years now, is around. I couldn’t hide my joy and I started smiling. Then Zikites! They said I was talking to my boyfriend and started shouting, “God when?”

ZHPO: Zikites can be very naughty.

Victoria: I meannnn…!

ZHPO: And what are your top 5 favorite books?

Victoria: “The Subtle Art of not Giving a Fuck,” “Rich Dad, Poor Dad,” “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” I think I have just top 3 or maybe I can’t remember the rest.

ZHPO: You’re really a deep reader. This is impressive. That draws the curtain on our Village Beauty for this week. Thank you very much, Miss Victoria, for your time. ZHPO doesn’t take you for granted. You’re highly appreciated. It was great conversing with you.

C blockites laments over constant water flooding in bathrooms.

By: Olasupo Taofik

Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall Block C residents are lamenting about the bad state of their bathrooms and toilets, with the bathrooms been constantly flooded.

Zikhall C blockites, particularly, the second floor residents are speaking out against the unhygienic still water facing them in their bathrooms, as nearly all bathrooms in the floor are not exempted from having the same issue of still water after usage.

The central issue pertains to the ten bathrooms on the second floor, in which nine out of it become contaminated and polluted with dirty water after first usage by a person, leaving other residents with options of either bathing in the unhealthy bathroom, inhaling foul smells from the water or to make use of another bathroom on another floor.the stagnant water takes a whole day to drain out which obviously affirms that the draining pipes are blocked.

Speaking to a ZHPO a student who preferred to referred to as Jay, a C blockite, expressed his frustration stating “
It’s been that way since I moved to Block C at the start of this semester,Initially, there was just one of the five bathrooms on my floor working normally so we’d queue up for the person currently using to be done, or find somewhere else”

He also added “Preparing for class have been hectic as hell, especially on days when most people have classes in the morning, 8am classes are recurrent for me through my schedule, sometimes I get to the next floor and there are people waiting to bath and I will be late for class as a result”

This issue of non moving water in bathrooms has disrupted the daily life of residents, making ordinary tasks like bathing and personal hygiene challenging.

The residents are looking forward to the response of the Hall management in repair of the water drain in the bathrooms.

The issue of stagnant water in Block C highlights one of the various challenges in the hall and the importance of essential amenities in student accomodations.

Zikhall L&D Holds Induction and Oratory Contest.

Adebiyi Emerges Rookie Speaker

By Ibn Yahweh

The Nnamdi Azikwe Hall Literary and Debating society, held her induction ceremony and oratory contest on Saturday, 14th October 2023 at the hall’s Junior Common Room, JCR.

The society, led by Bodunde Ebenezar, the President, is a platform for students to learn speak, write and critically. The inductees, comprising twelve memebers were inducted and presented membership certificates.

The event opened with a speech by Bodunde Ebenezar. The inductees, who underwent a week of bootcamp, were called to present their speeches. The speech topic was, “Freedom After Speech.” At the event was the guest speaker, Michael Barnabas, who gave a speech on public speaking and how youths can position themselves for opportunities in the field.

The event ended with the panel of judges, comprising of; Mary Adigun who heads Obafemi Awolowo Literary & Debating Society, Aweda Bolaji who heads the University of Ibadan Literary & Debating Society, and Nwaigwe Amarachi who heads Alexander Brown Hall Literary & Debating Society, pointing flaws in each speaker’s speech, and correcting them.

Out of the twelve speakers, six emerged as top, while three emerged as the best speakers with Emmanuel Adebiyi emerging as the Rookie speaker of the year.

Students react to fecal obstruction at Entrance of Zik river

By; Olasupo Taofik

Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall is faced with an unforeseen incident of fecal obstruction which began at the beginning of the week at the entrance of the Zik River bridge.

This issue, which is described by everyone passing through this route as pathetic, unhygienic and terrible, has a negative impact on the general health of students passing through the entrance each and everyday to classes and outside of the Hall premises. The faeces accumulated at the gate entrance can be traced to a damaged soakaway close to the JCR building.

This issue is not only affecting Zikites living in the Hall of residence, it also has terrible effects on other students living in Great independence Hall, Queen Idia Hall, Awolowo Hall, among others, due to the fact that the entrance serve as the fastest route for the whole lots of students living in these aforementioned Halls to classes and outside the school premises. Students inhale the foul smells from the contaminated and polluted smelly water laying down while using the entrance route which is harmful to the respiratory system and health in general.

Emmanuel, a Zikite, made his perspective known pertaining to the issue of fecal obstruction.“Yes, I believe the faecal obstruction could constitute a serious health hazard to the Zik community. This is so because there are various microbes ready to infest the stagnated sewage. The mere inhalation of such miasma is detrimental to health let alone the rainy climate all this could lead to a wide outbreak of an endemic”

He also added “My feeling is nothing but fear as I think of the likely devastating consequences of such a pathetic sight to behold for a hall of residence at the University of Ibadan and the 21st century. Such a sight brings to the fore the questions about the competence of administration.”

Speaking with a ZHPO correspondence,an awoite, who craved anonymity, expressed her frustration “I mean it’s stinking, it’ll reach some stages that it’ll definitely affect the health of people using it. Actually when I saw it the first day, I didn’t expect to see it the next day,I thought something must have been on it, this thing is lingering, definitely it can result to an outbreak of a disease because it is really really bad”

She also added“I felt like my life was in danger while passing it, imagine if my leg should enter, I don’t know what kind of soap to use to make myself clean again.”

Oreoluwa, an Idiate, commented stating“it’s disgusting, what if somebody falls inside, I was scared of falling inside while passing.”

Speaking with Covenant from Independence Hall, he explains “of course, I don’t feel good. If I count to and fro today,this is probably my sixth or eighth time passing it. Apart from the fact that it’s dangerous physically, this is a bank of infection, and it requires urgent attention, not something that should be postponed, I mean permissible, this shouldn’t last more than three days and it’s sad that it’s lasting longer.”

In a chat with hall management, the hall warden shed some lights on the issue, he had this to say “You see that thing is not water but sewage. We have contacted the USLB they said it is not their duty but maintenance. When I contacted the Maintainance Director, he said they will fix it but they will need labourers who will come from outside to fix it. They will be paid some amount of money. The hall management cannot afford the money to fix the stuff. I will get in touch with the Dean of students on the problem”.

Majority of Students using the route anticipate the response of the Hall management in providing urgent solutions to the damaged soakaway causing fecal obstruction at the Hall’s small gate.

THE ANTIMICROBIAL APOCALYSE; A TALE OF TINY TROUBLEMAKERS

By Abah (Martial pen)
武术笔
(wǔshù bǐ)

Imagine a bustling city filled with superheroes. Each one has a special power to fight off evil germs and keep us healthy. But there’s a problem, some germs are sneaky and have learned how to resist the powers of our superheroes(antimicrobials). This is what we call Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).

Antimicrobials are substances that are capable of killing or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms, which include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Antibiotics are a type of antimicrobial specifically designed to combat bacterial infections, while antivirals target viruses, antifungals tackle fungi, and antiparasitics combat parasites. In the context of this article, bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites are the trouble makers.

Now, you might be wondering, “Why should I care about these tiny troublemakers?” Well, buckle up, because I am about to tell you why AMR is a big deal and how YOU can be a superhero in this fight!

The Great Antibiotic Adventure
Think of antibiotics as our trusty sidekicks. They help our superheroes defeat the germs that make us sick. But, just like candy to kids, if we use them too much, germs can get used to them and become antibiotic-resistant.

Picture this: our superheroes, armed with ordinary peashooters against now super-powered germs. This means common infections become super tough to treat. Suddenly, the once-easy battles become epic showdowns, and our trusty antibiotics don’t work like they used to!
You might be wondering, “What can I do?” Fear not, because every one of us can be a superhero in this fight against AMR!
We can do this by making sure the following are adhered to without compromise:

Clean hands: The World Health Organization emphasizes the critical importance of implementing adequate infection prevention and control measures as a key role in the global fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Washing of hands regularly with soap, this simple act is like putting up a force field against germs. It keeps them from spreading and becoming stronger.

Don’t demand antibiotics for every little sniffle and sneeze. Remember, antibiotics are for bacterial infections, not viruses like the common cold or flu. Always insist for an Antmicrobial Sensitivity Test(AST).

Vaccination visionary: Keep up with your vaccinations. They’re like giving our superheroes an extra power boost, making them even more effective against the bad germs.

Avoid leftovers: If you’re prescribed antibiotics, take them exactly as your doctor says. Don’t stop early, even if you’re feeling better. It ensures all the germs are defeated, leaving no survivors to become resistant.

Eco-friendly environment enforcement: Properly dispose of unused antibiotics. Don’t let them end up in our water systems where they can create super germs in nature.

Imagine a future where our superheroes are mighty and the germs are no match for them. That’s the world we’re fighting for! Each one of us plays a crucial role in this epic showdown against AMR.
Remember, it’s not just about us, it’s about future generations too! By being a responsible antibiotic user, you’re setting the stage for a healthier, stronger world.
So, let’s suit up, dear Zikites, UItes, and become the champions of a world where antibiotics always have the upper hand. Together, we can make sure the Antibiotic Apocalypse remains nothing more than a funny story we tell our grandkids!
Stay healthy and super-powered!

Zikhall and its unending issues.

“We are deeply faced with several challenges this session. What’s going on?” That was a student’s reaction to the numerous and unending challenges facing the hall this semester, as things have not been unfolding as it ought to be.

It’s already eight weeks after resumption and it seems issues keep piling up in the hall from the lack of water, flooded bathrooms, electrical malfunctions, low availability of cleaners and the recent fecal debacle at the Zik river. Every week seems to churn out a new burden for Zikites to endure. The situation of things calls into question the activities of the hall management and the administrators

Water debacle

Water problems have now become a constant feature with the reoccurring issues not looking like there is going to be a permanent solution in the nearest future. Even with over 40 tanks in the hall there are still water tanks that are in active and not in use.

One would recall that the water tank adjacent to B block and C block was repaired and announced to be back in service four weeks into the semester, four weeks later it would appear we have returned back to status quo as the tank has remained unproductive without any explanation given for its inactiveness.

The borehole tank behind A block has only one tap running out of five, while the only working tap is also broken. With no sign of repairs coming soon, students have to make do with one broken tap which they have to queue up for. The recurring water issues seems to be a permanent feature of Zikhall with no final solution for the foreseeable future.

Electrical malfunctions

The semester has witnessed a lot of electrical malfunctions in the hall that have been unprecedented in previous sessions. The height of the whole issue came when the whole floor didn’t have electricity for weeks. The electrical malfunction is a recurring problem that is rooted in the use of appliances that have adverse effects on the light in the hall.

It was no surprise that the Hall management authorized a secret raid on every room in the hall in search of Hot plates which is believed to be a major cause of electrical malfunctions in the hall.
A total of 65 hot plates was reportedly recovered during the operation which alludes to high rate of the use of the appliance in the hall.

Flooded bathrooms and low amount of cleaners

There have been constant complaints about the state of the bathrooms and toilets in the hall ranging from flooded bathrooms, to busted and leaking pipes and the stagnant state of the urinary system in the hall. These issues have made it difficult for students to use the facilities and created a source of burden for them.

The issues of flooded bathrooms have been a recurring experience in Zikhall and it is partly caused by the usage of the students who deposit substances not meant for the drainage system of the bathrooms. This has led to an increase In the case of flooded bathrooms and stagnant urinary system in the hall.

The low amount of cleaners is also an added issue which has culminated in the bathroom and toilet problems in the hall. The few amount of cleaners saddled with the work of cleaning is not enough and although they are doing their best, the lapses are shown in the resulting issues that keep on springing up about the state of the bathrooms and toilets in the hall.

Fecal obstruction debacle

Last week saw another ugly incident rear its head when Zikites woke up to the entrance of the Zik bridge flooded by water from a fecal deposit from a damaged soakaway around the JCR. This new issue has made it quite difficult for people to frequent the area, as they pass through climbing over stones and platforms as a form bridge over the flooded area.

The Zik river bridge which serves as a major route in and out of the hall, is used largely frequented by students from not only the Zikhall but other halls who pass through the hall as a route to their various hall’s. So the new development can potentially cause health hazards for the students that frequently use the area.

In a chat with the hall warden about the cause and the response to the sewage flood, he had this to say “We have contacted the USLB and they said it is not their duty but maintenance. When I contacted the Maintenance Director, he said they will fix it but they will need labourers who will come from outside to fix it. They will be paid some amount of money. The hall management cannot afford the money to fix the stuff. I will get in touch with the Dean of students on the problem”. He assured that the problem will be looked into and resolved before the end of the week.

Conclusion

It must be said that this semester has been one of increased issues and challenges in the hall. The problems seems to be unending with no final solution applied to this issues and this is creating a cause for concern among the student residents with silent grumbles and discontent about the state of things in the hall, and there is a need for the hall management and administration to take proactive actions to tackle this issues and proffer lasting solutions to the recurring problems.

"Zik is Home", The Irony of A Unisex Residence

By Beatitude

In the heart of the University of Ibadan lies Nnamidi Azikwe Hall, a male hall of residence that prides itself on its vibrancy and unity. However, Beneath this facade of brotherhood and camaraderie lies a hilarious paradox – Zik Hall seems turning to a “unisex residence” where ladies are welcomed with open arms, even during non-visiting hours.

Zik Hall is now a place where the concept of a “unisex residence” takes on a whole new level of absurdity. While most university dorms adhere to strict visitation rules, Zikites seem to have their own rulebook, one that can be summarized as follows: “Ladies are welcome, day or night, semester or holiday or exam week”. Now, you might think that the other Zikites would be up in arms about this flagrant violation of the unisex residence policy, but you’d be wrong. Instead, they complain in silence, as if this blatant disregard for the rules is just a normal part of life in Zik Hall. It’s almost as if they’ve accepted that Zik Hall is the exception to every rule, a place where the laws of time and space are mere suggestions.

“Zik is Home” takes on an entirely new dimension within these walls. It’s not just a home for Zikites; it’s also a cozy retreat for their female counterparts, a sanctuary where visiting hours are mere abstractions, much like the notion of speed limits on Nigerian highways.
Imagine this scenario: It’s the dead of night, the world outside is peacefully asleep, and the hall should be no different. However, this is Baluba kingdom, and tranquility is often interrupted by the sounds of female laughter, chatter, and the occasional pulse of music, not to talk of loud voices echoing “Ebode ee”.

Forget about the university’s visiting hours; Zikites adhere to a unique time zone where conventional rules are more like opinions.
But, dear Zikites, let’s not kid ourselves. Zik Hall may be lively and unified, but it’s also a prime example of selective rule enforcement. It’s as if the authorities have turned a blind eye to the harem of female visitors who frequent the place at ungodly hours and even sleep over. Perhaps they’ve concluded that it’s impossible to enforce any rules in Zik Hall because it operates in a perpetual state of chaos. Picture this: Zikites strolling around at all hours, with no regard for decency or decorum. The hallways resemble a bustling marketplace, with girls hanging out in every nook and cranny.

But hey, who needs rules when you’ve got the spirit of Zikism? After all, Zik Hall is more than just a residence; it’s a way of life, a celebration of anarchy in the name of unity. The motto might as well be “Come one, come all, and leave your sense of propriety at the door!”. And if you’re ever in need of a lesson in selective enforcement, just pay a visit to Zik – you won’t be disappointed.

65 Hot Plates Seized; as Hall Warden leads raid on Zikites

By Adegbite Adewale

A total of 65 hot plates were seized on Saturday 14th of October 2023, as the Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall’s Warden, Dr. Okunlade Adeleke Oluseyi, led the Defense Team in a surprise raid on all rooms in the hall in an attempt to tackle the causes of frequent electricity issues in the hall.

Dr. Okunlade in an attempt to tackle the high rate of electrical malfunctions in the hall, instructed the Defense Team to embark on a stealth operation which requires a thorough raid of every room in the hall in search of hot plates being used.

The secret operation, which was carried out in the dead of the night, caught many of the students by surprise and led to the capture of a total of 65 Hot plates as at the time of the report. The seizure of the hot plates is in compliance with the rules of the hall, as the use of hot plates is outlawed in the hall.

The hall has been battling a lot of electrical issues in recent weeks with many of the blocks going without electricity for days and even weeks. This led the hall management to embark on measures to tackle the issues.

The raid is a regular occurrence in the hall which is used to sniff out illegal occupants, the use of illegal equipment such as gas cookers and as was the case last night; Hot plates which is used regularly in the hall.

UI'SU HOLDS CONGRESS: MAKES MAJOR RESOLUTIONS

By Faith Adediran

The Students’ Union body of the University of Ibadan convened a congress on Saturday, 14th of October 2023 at the Kunle Adepeju Students’ Union Building Foyer in a bid to proffer solutions to issues affecting the students.

The Congress which is known as the general meeting of the union, was called by the office of the President of the Union, Samuel Samson Tobiloba (Host), to discuss and proffer solutions to urgent and important issues that are facing students since the resumption of the new session.

The congress, which was meant to start by 7am, kicked off at 9am due late arrivals of students and low turnout, lasted for 3 hours, with three major resolutions being made on the State of the Union and other business of the day.

The three resolutions of the Congress as it was read by the Union’s President at the end of the event includes: First, it was agreed by the entire students that there has been a wide margin in communication between the management of the university and the entire student populace.

Also, the student expressed their displeasure with the introduction of new fees at every level of academics either at the department, faculty, or the university level because they are unjustified. Clarifications and justification were requested before the students are allowed to pay such fees.

Lastly, the students also expressed their grievances on the kind of treatment and reactions by the practitioners at the Jaja clinic. One of the participants had this to say about their experience “Jaja Clinic filters emergency cases based on severity. A UIte having seizures was delayed in Jaja’s ambulance for an hour, thirty minutes, with the explanation given by Jaja officials being that they were waiting for another patient with a similar case, so they could transport them together”.

After the reading of the resolutions of the congress, the President proceeded to announce the adjournment of the congress till further notice. It must be noted that this is the first congress of its kind in the University of Ibadan, since May 27, 2017 under the Ojo Aderemi administration which had a significant impact on the chain of events in the institution during that period.

JUST IN: CONCERNED STUDENTS DEMAND FOR CONGRESS; TO PROTEST ON FRIDAY

By Oluwagbenga Kolawole

A group of Concerned students in the University of Ibadan have written a letter to the Executive Council and Representative council of the Student Union, demanding for the urgent organization of a congress on Tuesday 3rd of October 2023. 

A copy of the letter received by ZHPO which was signed received by the SU Executive Council and dated 3/10/23, reads:

 ” Hinged on the need to check in on the general welfare of students of the University of Ibadan, a letter demanding for Congress with over 250 signatories as provided for in Article 13 of the students Union construction was acknowledged by the students Union on the 25th of August, 2023. 

That the students’ Union has flagrantly refused to heed the call for a Congress, and we find this refusal unconstitutional and unbecoming of people who are purportedly representing the interests of the students”

” As issues of concern on campus continue to exist without the resolute intervention of UI’SU, we recognize and restate the urgency of a need for a Congress. Against this backdrop, we strongly demand that the UI’SU calls for a Congress to check in on the general welfare of students.

 At the expiration of four working days ultimatum, which will lapse on Friday, 6th of October, 2023, further refusal to heed this call would have us resolve to peaceful demonstrations to press home our demands as provided in 5.40 of the Constitution of the Federal republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, at the Kunle Adepeju Memorial Student Union building”

The letter was signed by Aduwo Ayodele, Linus Nice, Adediran Faith and Olajide Olawale. For context, it should be noted that the Great Ife Students Union, OAU, had on Monday, 2nd of October, 2023 organized a congress to discuss pressing national issues affecting their student body.

US Court Grants Atiku’s Request For Release Of Tinubu’s Academic Records

By Beatitude

In a landmark victory delivered in favour of Atiku Abubakar, applicant and candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the 2023 presidential election, the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois has ruled that all documents the PDP candidate applied for must be released to him.

The court held that all the documents must be released on or before October 2.
The court did not vary the request but made an astonishing ruling compelling the Chicago State University to as a matter of urgency release sought after documents to the PDP candidate.


The Judge Nancy Maldonado, in a copy of the judgement on Sunday, noted that Chicago State University raised no objection to Judge Jeffery Gilbert’s decision that the academic record be made public.


The court noted that Atiku’s interest far outweigh any intrusion on Tinubu’s privacy interests in his educational records.

All Tinubu’s objections to Gilbert’s recommended ruling were overruled while all Atiku’s applications adopted the ruling.
The court held that “For the foregoing reasons, the Court overrules President Tinubu’s objections to Magistrate Judge Gilbert’s recommended ruling and therefore adopts the ruling in full.

“Mr. Abubakar’s Application is therefore granted. In light of the pending Supreme Court of Nigeria deadline, represented to the Court as October 5, 2023, and based on CSU’s representations that it is ready to comply with the discovery requests and produce a witness, the Court sets an expedited schedule for completion of discovery.

“Respondent CSU is directed to produce all relevant and non-privileged documents in
response to Requests for Production Nos. 1 through 4 (as narrowed by Judge Gilbert and adopted here) in Mr. Abubakar’s subpoena, by 12:00 p.m. (noon) CDT, on Monday, October 2, 2023.

“The Rule 30(b)(6) deposition of CSU’s corporate designee must be completed by 5:00 p.m. CDT on
Tuesday, October 3, 2023. Given the October 5, 2023, filing deadline before the Supreme Court
of Nigeria, the Court will not extend or modify these deadlines.

“ENTERED: 9/30/23 Nevery 7. Malleried Nancy L. Maldonado United States District Court Judge.”

Aroism to me is something I think guys do to make funor catch cruise – Mary Okunola

Mary Okunola is a 300 level Law student at the University of Ibadan. Asides being a Law student, she runs an educational organization in which she teaches pre – school children. This initiative stems from her passion for children. She’s also a music minister. Her hobbies include; reading, singing, adventures, and having intelligent conversations. She’s our guest for this week’s Village Beauty on Zik Hall Press Organization.

ZHPO: Good afternoon Miss Mary. Welcome to Zikpress. Can you introduce yourself please?

Mary: Thank you. I’m Okunola Mary from the Faculty of Law. 300 level to be precise.

ZHPO: Miss Mary, can you tell us about more about yourself and your hobbies?

Mary: My hobbies are reading, singing, adventures and having intelligent conversations – and yea my birth month is November 11. I guess have tried.

ZHPO: What is your perspective about Zikhall?

Mary: Hmmm. Not bad of a hall I guess. And yea I love the way you guys come all out for one another.

ZHPO: Hmmmm. You sure?

Mary: Yea.

ZHPO: What do you think about aroism?

Mary: Aroism to me is something I think guys do to make fun or catch cruise – either ways. although it can be annoying very very when it’s too much.

ZHPO: Hmmmmm. Have you ever experienced aroism at Zikites’ hands?

Mary: Most definitely (laughs).

ZHPO: Wow! Do you mind sharing your experience?

Mary: Well it wasn’t pleasant… in most cases I ignore or just give a warm or annoying smile

ZHPO: Wow! My sincere apologies please. So how’s been campus life for you?

Mary: Campus life has been a lot, trust me. But I’m pushing. Yea! I am.

ZHPO: Are you into any business?

Mary: Yes. I run an educational organization where I teach.

ZHPO: Who do you teach?

Mary: I teach children in primary and secondary school.

ZHPO: How do you balance it with classes?

Mary: I try to maximize my time judiciously. So yea that’s basically it. Not really easy but yea I’m pushing. And I try not to compare myself with others who don’t really have anything aside schooling.

ZHPO: Hmmm…this is pivotal.

Mary: And how do you cope as a Law student?

ZHPO: Like I said it’s a lot. But God is helping me. I sincerely don’t know how I’m doing it but it’s been going on well.

Mary: Hmmmm…When God’s with one. One would everything with ease.

ZHPO: Hmmmmmm…Very true. So you seem to love children. How’s been teaching children like?

Mary: Yes! I love children – so much.

ZHPO: Wow! Do you aspire to be an educationist?

Mary: Not really. I’d prefer to do something more professional in line with Music.

ZHPO: Wow! So we’re looking forward to seeing you in Music and in the legal profession. This is commendable Miss Mary.

Mary: Thank you sir.

ZHPO: You said you like reading. Do you read novels?

Mary: Yes sir.

ZHPO: What type of novels do you read?

Mary: I read more of Romance.

ZHPO: So last question. What are your top 5 favorite books?

Mary: “The Little Shepherd,” “The Story of Marlan,” “Nearly All Men in Lagos are Mad,” “The Lurking Fear,” and “Death Deserved.”

ZHPO: Wow! Including “Nearly all Men in Lagos are mad?” Okay o.

Mary: Yes sir(smiles).

ZHPO: That comes to the end of the Village Beauty interview. Thank you so much Miss Mary for your time. Thank you very much for gracing us with your presence.

Mary: Thank you for hosting me.

The Thieves In-Between the Lines: A look into the Rampant Cases of Cloth Theft in Zik Hall

As the academic session kick-started some weeks back, with each person resuming to continue from where they left off from last session; staffs, students, vendors, commuters, cafeterias resumed; thieves too, also resumed.

Cases of theft in Zik hall did not start today, it is like a tradition that has lingered on from year to year, one that runs parallel but simultaneously with the Zikism tradition.  Freshers mostly are preys in the hands these thieves, as they are the most vulnerable due to various reasons like their innocence, ignorance, negligence and their lack of vigilance.

In recent years, no academic session has ended without a case of theft in Zik Hall. Even two sessions ago which was half-virtual, the popular story of the thief, Gala comes to mind. In fact, Zik press gathered that few weeks before the current session fully started, an inverter was stolen in one of the hall’s reading rooms.

 Thieves vary according to what they cart; some steal gadgets like laptops, phones and other important expensive accessories belonging to students. Like in the past, this new session has seen a continuation of these swift-handed individuals pick up from where they left-off.

While in the past, cases of gadget theft has received the most attention, many cases of cloth-theft without go receiving the publicity they deserve as most victims keep the pain to themselves.

It is a phenomenon during weekends to see many Zikites wash clothes that the weekdays of classes would not avail them. However, the chances of resuming the new week with the clothes washed over the weekend are very slim, as there are those whose only business is to do the packing of the clothes for the owners.

How the thieves get away

To start with, the muddling-up of clothes on the spreading lines is one of the reasons that these thieves are able to easily carry out their atrocities, making them hard to nab.

“What has always worried me on this issue is how there has not been any record of anyone caught in the act of stealing clothes on the line despite how rampant it is in the hall. It is wearisome, and the hall management needs to find a way to curb it on time. It is not like we are careless or carefree but how these people perpetuate their acts must be checked and stopped”,

 

says Olawale, who was one of the respondents.

Photo credits: Faith Adeniran

The reason for this is that there are mostly too many clothes on the line at once, thereby making it is easy for a thief to steal clothes with the guise of packing their own clothes, while in fact they are there to steal other people’s clothes. While it might be easy to catch a thief who has stolen a gadget, the probability of apprehending a cloth-thief is almost impossible, as the former would mostly involve entering a targeted victim’s room, while the latter just walks up to the clothing line disguising as someone who wants to pack their own clothes.

To salvage the situation, one of our respondents who said he tried to closely monitor his own clothes so as to avoid it been stolen, still ended up being a victim.

“[sic] last Saturday when I washed my clothes and spread them on a newly bought rope, as if I knew someone was watching over my clothes to steal, my mind told me to check on those clothes often which I did on a thirty-minute interval. Then, when I decided to go and park the clothes around 5p.m, I discovered that one black jeans which I checked about 30 minutes earlier was missing from the clothes”.

 

They steal any kinds of clothes, even underpants

 For Elisha Ajiboye, the health minister of the hall, he was first the victim of cloth theft when the trouser he had planned to wear to the press night while he contested, had been stolen. More interestingly, as a second time victim, his underpants were stolen this time around.

 “There was also a time, particularly after the last Christmas when I went home and bought a new pair of boxers, and I spread them on the grass behind the Alumni block that day because the line was full. And by the time I got there to pack, they had stolen the finest one among those boxers”, Elisha narrates. 

What has the hall management done?

During a legislative sitting on the 9^th of September, the Council Speaker, Rt. Hon. Igbaoreto Samuel (Gandoki), while addressing the house on the issue, narrated that he had also been a victim. He also encouraged the floor reps to educate their constituency members on keeping adequate watch on their clothes when they spread it. The legislative council however, proposed that the executive be instructed to buy more rope for the cloth lines.

While Zik Press gathered that some cloth lines were bought, it has not had the slightest of effects in tackling cases of cloth stealing in the hall.

In his reaction to the story, the Hall Chairman, Adeniji Uthman expressed his unfamiliarity with such cases of theft in the hall, he merely promised to look into it.

“To be very honest, I only got a report once, and about what, and a way to curb this problem, I don’t know for now, but I will call a meeting with the Defense team, IPM, and other stakeholders to brainstorm on how to curb it”.

As of press time, Zik Press has not seen any tangible effort from the Hall Chairman to address this issue that occurs frequently.

When one of Zik Press’s correspondents reached out to the Defense minister, Oluwaferanmi Eda, he refused to give any reasonable answer to the questions posed to him regarding these cases, his response simply was “no comments”.

Nigeria @ 63: UI holds Pre-Exhibition and Photowalk

By Oluwagbenga Kolawole

The Photography Unit of The Directorate of Public Communication, University of Ibadan on Monday, 2nd of October, organized a photowalk and photoshoot event in commemoration of Nigeria’s 63rd anniversary.

This is in conjunction with Camera Interllect, a group of professional photographers and camera enthusiasts. The event was themed “The Power of Youth: From Despair to Hope”.

According to Mr. Adeniyi Adebayo, an official of the directorate of public communications, UI, the photoshoot was in celebration of Nigeria’s 63rd anniversary while using UI as a symbol, a national heritage to capture the beauty of the present.

He further stated that the photoshoot event was to help youths, students especially, to build their skills in order to thrive in the present situation of the country. He further said that all the photographs will be collected and the best 3 photographs will be awarded and displayed among pictures for UI 75th Anniversary exhibition.

The photographers and observers went around the school campus taking pictures of the school’s aesthetics and architecture.

Addressing the group after the photo walk, Mr Olakunle Oladipupo who represented the Director of Public communications, Mrs Adejoke Akinpele, encouraged the youthful enthusiasts and professional photographers alike to be resilient and to believe in the dignity of labour. He spoke on the need for youths to be given more chances to use their strength in the society and the need for synergy between youthfulness and experience. He concluded by asking the volunteers to add value to themselves and to never lose hope.

UI Walks against Gender Based Violence.

By Oluwagbenga Kolawole

The Society for Good Health, Sustainable Development and Environmental Awareness in conjunction with the University of Ibadan Students Union on Monday, 2nd of October, 2023 organized a walk against Gender Based Violence (GBV).

The campaign displayed the support of people for the victims of gender based violence, whether in marriages or communities. It was both for supporters and victims. Over 50 UI students turned up despite the impromptu mobilization. The walk went from UI gate all the way to the State Secretariat.

The volunteer students wore orange shirts with inscriptions such “#I stand against violence”. They also carried placards with inscriptions such as “Love is Kind, Violence is blind”, “NO is NO”, “Gender equality is non-negotiable” among many other inscriptions.

During their walk, they stopped at different points to sensitize and educate the general ibadan community on the need to speak up against Gender based violence and every other acts of aggression towards fellow humans, regardless of age or gender.

Zik Hall Health Minister Leads Environmental Cleanup in The Hall

By Beatitude

The Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall of residence Health Minister,Ajiboye Elisha in conjunction with The Zik Hall Health Committee and The hall floor representatives on 30th of September 2023, embarked on an environmental Cleanup exercise in the hall.

The initiative aimed to address the long standing issues of a foul smell emanating from the gutters behind A-block and to tackle sanitation concerns in that area and other places within the Hall with similar issues.

The environmental cleanup kicked off with the team’s efforts focused on clearing the gutter at the back of A-block. This particular location had been a source of numerous complaints due to the unpleasant odour and potential health hazards associated with stagnant water and refuse buildup.

Ajiboye Elisha, Zik Hall Health Minister, played a pivotal role in leading the cleanup efforts. His dedication to improving the living conditions within the constituency was evident as he actively participated in the cleanup alongside other committee members, some enthusiatic Zikites and floor representatives.

During an interview with a member of the Zik Hall Press Organization (ZHPO), the Health Minister expressed his gratitude for the collaboration between his team and the committed floor representatives from A1 Constituency. He commended their dedication to ensuring a healthier and more pleasant living environment for residents of Zik Hall. In a heartening revelation, the Health Minister also acknowledged the generous contribution of local businesses that supported the cleanup endeavor.

Daddy Elijah,a local vendor known for his delicious Akara (fried bean cakes), the owner of Boluid Cafeteria, and Mummy OJB, , sponsored the exercise by providing drinks and refreshments for the hardworking volunteers. Their support not only fueled the team but also showcased the community’s unity and commitment to positive change.

The Zik Hall Health Minister’s dedication to addressing the environmental concerns within the Hall serves as a shining example of how community leaders and residents can work together to create a cleaner, healthier, and more vibrant living environment. Such initiatives not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also foster a sense of unity and community spirit that can lead to further positive changes in the future.

Nigeria at 63, Zik at 60: A Tale of two brothers insuffering; water problem in perspective.

Some days ago, The Elisha Ajiboye-led Health committee carried out an exercise aimed at differentiating water tanks that are reservoirs for drinkable water from the ones that are not. The underlying reason for this exercise was to help Zikites, freshmen especially, navigate the differences between cholera-inducing water tanks from the ones that are safe for drinking.

However, this exercise might just have turned on its head, Zikites might need to brace up, brandish their Jaja cards, and be ready to use it, as we might have a breakout of cholera and other water-borne diseases on our hands soon, many thanks to Elisha and his team.

Nigeria, the elder

In the world today, that Nigeria is one of the countries that has unsafe and unclean water is a no-brainer, a claim that we do not need facts to back up; in fact, if the contrary is true, then we can as well say that numbers are more real than reality. I mean, what is not wrong with our 63 year-old man? The poor quality of water in Nigeria, sources say, is a result of uncoordinated efforts at the federal, state and local government level agencies.

According to a 2014 report in the Journal of Advancement in Medical and Life Sciences, about 90 million people are without access to safe drinking water, and about 130,000 children under the age of five die annually from preventable waterborne diseases as access to safe water supply has indeed become a nightmare in Nigeria.

In addition, UNICEF say that 70% of water at the point of consumption in the world is contaminated. The organization also conveyed that children are the most affected as 117, 000 children die each year in Nigeria from water-related diseases – the highest number in the world.
Given the low quality of drinking water in Nigeria, most Nigerians will usually contract a waterborne illness. Nevertheless, when pollutants find their way into drinking water sources and are not eliminated by water treatment processes, it can and does make people sick. This can be attributed to lack of sanitation system, pipe breaks, leaks, groundwater contamination, and campgrounds where human and wildlife use the same source of water.

Zik, the younger

The necessity of distinguishing water pumped in Zik from Awba Dam tanks is a perfect problem discovery, but as a quote says, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions”, meaning that well-intentioned actions can have negative outcomes if not thoughtfully executed. With the manner in which the execution of the differences between clean and unclean tanks has been formatted, it would lead to even grave consequences that it has been positioned to solve.

First, what method of testing did the health minister use to determine them as drinkable? From observation, it seems that Elisha deemed all the water pumped in Zik drinkable. But is it the case that any kind of borehole is suitable for drinking?
Let’s start from the low-hanging fruits. The incompetence latent in the process is glaring when the D Block tanks were also deemed suitable for drinking. The same tanks whose water obviously contain sediment particles?

Sediment particles consist of various materials such as sand, silt, clay, minerals, or organic matter that have been eroded and carried by water into the borehole. They can make the water appear cloudy or discolored, affecting its taste and smell.
Apart from this, the D block borehole is surrounded by septic tanks maintaining close proximity to it. However, studies have shown that close proximity of septic tanks housing human feces to boreholes have been shown to cause microbial contamination as a result of the harmful microorganisms present in human feces, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites, leading to various kinds of gastrointestinal diseases and other health issues.
When we say that Zik hall and UI at large is just a microcosm of the Nigerian society, that the problems of Nigeria is just a problem of Zik Hall writ small, such keenly thought-out proposition cannot be fallible — accommodation issues, improper health care, poorly planned policies, incompetent leadership and what have you.

This editorial would not end without Zik Press giving you a nugget of gold: if you do not want to extend your spirit of oneness, togetherness and brotherhood to Jaja in the long term, you might care enough to just help yourself to a N250 bag of Ale Dammy in the meantime, or you might just be drinking microbes every time, and you might just land in the hospital anytime.