Neglect and Mismanagement: The Crisis of Private Hostels

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By Sinmisola Ajibola and Aderonke Adedunni
In Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), private hostels have become a necessary alternative for many students due to overcrowding and limited spaces in the university’s official halls of residence. However, despite the high cost of securing a room in these private hostels, many students have expressed deep frustration over the poor management and neglect they experience daily. This report sheds light on the challenges students face.

In August 2024, ACJOAU reported that, in recent years, female students residing in the hostel at Obafemi Awolowo University have faced increased accommodation fees. Over the past three years, these fees have risen from ₦230,000 to ₦320,000 per space.


Students living in these hostels pay significant amounts of money with the expectation that they will enjoy a clean, safe, and functional living environment. Unfortunately, the reality is far from ideal. One of the most pressing issues is the frequent scarcity of water. Residents often go without running water for days, forcing them to look for water outside the hostel premises , a situation that not only disrupts their daily routines but also puts their health and hygiene at risk. Given the importance of water in maintaining basic cleanliness and sanitation, this is a critical failure on the part of the hostel management.

Testimony, a resident of Oak Hostel, shared her frustration, saying, "The alarming light and water issue is so frustrating and sometimes makes me question why I opted for a private hostel."
A toilet in Oak Hostel 

In addition to the water problem, the physical conditions of the hostel facilities are extremely poor. Many of the toilets have broken seats and faulty flushing systems. Washing hand basins are cracked or entirely detached from the wall, making them practically unusable. These issues are left unattended for week forcing students to manage with inadequate and uncomfortable amenities. Tolani, another resident from Oak Hostel, lamented, "The hostel is totally different from what I thought it would be." 

Perhaps even more alarming is the presence of snakes within the hostel environment. Students have reported several sightings of snakes within and around the hostels, a clear indication that the premises are not being properly maintained. Overgrown grasses, poor waste disposal. These conditions not only invite reptiles and other dangerous creatures but also pose a serious threat to the safety of the students. Tunmise, reflecting on the overall condition of her hostel, remarked, “The situation is so wack and disheartening.” 

Moreover, the management of many private hostels imposes overly strict rules that further add to students’ frustration. Curfews, restrictions on visitors, and unnecessary fines often make students feel as though they are being micromanaged rather than accommodated. These rigid rules are implemented with little to no input from the residents, and violations are sometimes met with harsh consequences. Mariam, a resident of Ojaja Hostel, voiced her concern, saying, “The hostel is too strict, and they are not even consistent with their water supply.” Her statement emphasises the double burden of harsh rules and unreliable amenities that students face. Rather than creating a supportive environment, these policies contribute to a sense of oppression and disconnection between students and hostel administrators.

The lack of proper management in these hostels is inexcusable, especially considering the high fees paid by students.


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