Heritage Park Demolition: A Growing Concern Among Students

Esther Ilori

The intrinsic connection between humans and nature has long been a source of sustenance and well-being. From providing oxygen, food, and freshwater to offering spaces for recreation, mental health rejuvenation, and cultural inspiration, nature plays a vital role in human life. Yet, in today’s urbanised world, this connection is steadily eroding, sparking concerns, particularly in urban environments.

This issue hit home for students at the University of Ibadan, following the management’s decision to cut down trees at the beloved Heritage Park. Once a haven for relaxation, study, and recreation, the park has now been stripped of its lush greenery, leaving students dismayed and nostalgic for what they have lost.

For many students, Heritage Park was more than a physical location; it was a sanctuary. Grace Oluwatuyi, reflecting on her time there, shared, “Honestly, I was sad. I mean, how can I be hurt by a ‘living thing’? I’ve grown to love that park, the quietness, the calm breeze, and its natural wonder.”

She fondly recounted how the park was integral to her first-year photography project, serving as her muse. “Seeing that all these have now become history creates a loophole in my heart,” she said, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural spaces for their tranquil qualities.

Similarly, Ifeoluwa Anwojesu expressed her attachment to the park, which had hosted countless picnics, music rehearsals, and impromptu programs. “That’s probably the only place you could play an instrument without disturbing anyone. It was a hub for practising the trumpet and other instruments.” For her, the park was not only a recreational space but also a cultural landmark. “What’s going to happen to the statues and sculptures there?” she asked, voicing concerns over the loss of its artistic and historical significance.

Beyond its emotional resonance, students also raised concerns about the environmental consequences of the demolition. Gbadamosi Akinsunbo noted that the park provided shade and a cooling atmosphere, particularly on sunny days. “On days when the sun is out, and I’m coming from class, I could easily sit down and relax for some time,” he shared, highlighting the practical benefits of the green space.

He also warned of the long-term impact of deforestation on the campus. “When trees are cut down without planting new ones, the campus loses its protective canopy, which benefits plants, animals, and humans alike.”

The sentiment was echoed by Isaiah Joseph, who lamented the disappearance of a cherished space for relaxation, interaction, and reflection. “Now that the trees are gone, we have to search for another place to recreate the sense of connection we once enjoyed there,” he said.

Some students saw the demolition coming. According to Gbadamosi, rumours of the park’s demise had circulated for months. “We heard from sources, including Mr. Toba Bankole, that the management intended to build a structure on that site. While some of us were mentally prepared, we didn’t expect it to happen so soon.”

This foresight, however, did little to soften the blow. For many, the demolition represents not just the loss of trees but the erasure of a cultural and environmental legacy.

As urban spaces expand and natural habitats dwindle, students are calling for a renewed focus on environmental sustainability. “Measures like these are essential to promote healthy ecosystems,” Oluwatuyi urged, underscoring the importance of preserving spaces like Heritage Park.

The voices of the students are a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between development and conservation. While progress is inevitable, the loss of green spaces like Heritage Park serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of neglecting nature in the pursuit of modernization.

The question remains: How will the university management address the students’ concerns and mitigate the impact of this decision? For now, the absence of Heritage Park leaves a void that will be difficult to fill.