Invasion of Property: The Silent Hijack of the University of Ibadan by Smokers

By: Oluseun FATOPE

Beneath the vibrant green canopy behind the Students’ Union Building (SUB) at the University of Ibadan lies a secret; a pitch known for its calm scenery and informal gatherings, now slowly becoming a haven for a smoke.

It was a regular Thursday afternoon when I visited the SUB pitch. The sun filtered through the leaves, students chatted in groups, and laughter filled the air. But tucked behind the old concrete drainage, a less-discussed culture was on display; a group of unknown sat casually on the high concrete edge, one of them rolling a suspicious-looking substance with practiced ease. Another stood watch, his eyes darting back and forth. The smell lingered faintly in the air — familiar to some, unplaceable to others.

This wasn’t an isolated incident. For months now, students have whispered about the creeping normalisation of smoking at UI’s SUB pitch. What used to be a peaceful meeting point and recreational space has turned into an informal lounge for people indulging in smoking cigarettes, in many cases, marijuana.

UI’s SUB Pitch Lost in Smoke

The SUB pitch, technically meant for sports, recreation, and relaxation, sits strategically near the library and key faculty buildings, including Arts and Education. Over the years, it has evolved from a mini football field into an open hangout spot, especially popular among students who just finished classes or want a break from the congested SUB car park area.

“During our 100 level days, we used to come here to eat after lectures, or just read under the trees,” said Ifeoluwa, a 400-level student in the Faculty of Arts. “But now, you’re careful where you sit, because you might unknowingly join a smoking circle.”

While there is no formal restriction on sitting around the pitch, the abuse of the space by smokers now discourages others from using it. The unpleasant odour of smoke has become a recurring feature of the area, even during daytime.

Social Spaces Becoming Risk Zones

The abuse of public spaces by smokers isn’t a new phenomenon. However, the transformation of the SUB pitch into an informal smoke zone raises specific concerns. University regulations strictly prohibit smoking on campus, in line with national public health laws and Nigeria’s Tobacco Control Act of 2015.

“This is not just a violation of rules; it’s a health and moral concern,” Olufemi, from Social Sciences, lamented.

Also, the challenge isn’t just about enforcement of laws, but the growing normalization of smoking among students, possible consequences and its effect on non-smoking students.

Ajayi, a Katangite, stated that, “it’s already a normal thing to see smokers at some corners of UI such as Tech road and SUB.”

Sadly, smoking has also extended to various halls of residence, posing additional health risks to students who seek proper ventilation.

Iremide, a residence of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall, noted, “I couldn’t bear it sometimes when I want to use the bathroom but it’s already infested with dumps of cigarette’s head.”

One of the critical issues enabling this act is the near-total absence of active monitoring. Students claim the visits of security are infrequent and often predictable.This lack of consistent oversight, coupled with poor lighting at night, makes the SUB pitch an easy hideout for not just smokers but other questionable activities. “Once it’s evening, you don’t want to pass behind SUB unless you’re in a group,” added Mide.

Health and Peer Pressure

Medical experts have long warned about the health risks of smoking. Beyond the well-documented effects — lung cancer, heart disease, respiratory complications — smoking in public spaces increases secondhand smoke exposure for unsuspecting passers-by.

At recent encounter at the University Health Centre, Jaja, I overheard some officials who reported noticing an uptick in students complaining about chest discomfort and allergic reactions after staying around smokers.

Peer pressure remains a significant driver of smoking among undergraduates. It emerged that many started smoking because they wanted to “belong” or deal with academic pressure.

The Bigger Picture

What’s happening at the SUB pitch, and other places, is not just about smoking. It reflects a broader challenge within student communities: the negotiation between personal choice and public welfare

Spaces like the SUB pitch symbolize shared ownership. When they are abused, the entire student body suffers. It’s a loss of safe space, a decline in aesthetics, and a weakening of the values the university aims to instill.

“I just want to be able to sit there again with my friends and not worry about secondhand smoke or being judged for not smoking,” said Ifeoluwa. “Is that too much to ask?”

For the University of Ibadan, it’s time to reclaim its spaces with intentional enforcement of laws. The future of a healthier, safer campus may well depend on it.