Deforestation: Reactions as UI’s Heritage Park Goes Down for New Senate Building

As the reality of climate change becomes more apparent, human activities against the environment continue unabated, often with devastating consequences. Among these activities, deforestation has become increasingly rampant, driven by the need for agriculture, housing, infrastructure, raw materials, and energy.

According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), over 30% of the Earth’s surface is covered by vegetation, which plays a crucial role in providing oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This vegetation supports an estimated 80% of the Earth’s terrestrial species and provides food, pharmaceuticals, and shelter for over a billion people. Additionally, the forest sector directly employs approximately 13.4 million people and supports another 41 million jobs indirectly.

Historical data from National Geographic reveals that half of the tree population east of the North American continent was cut down for timber and agriculture between the 1600s and 1800s. This trend of deforestation continues, driven by the ever-growing need for construction and agriculture. Since 2000, the world has lost 10% of its tropical tree cover, with 121,000 square kilometers of forest destroyed in 2019 alone, according to a 2020 report by The New York Times.

 

Recently, students at Nigeria’s foremost university, the University of Ibadan, were shocked to wake up to the sound of chainsaws at work in the Heritage Park. The student community was taken by surprise, as there had been no prior notice that the park was slated for demolition. Rumors quickly spread, with some students claiming the park was being cleared for a new Senate Building.

Parts of the Heritage Park

Gabriel Olatobi Simon, a student at the university, voiced his concerns: “We don’t know what UI is all about with the recent tree cutting on campus. We were told that trees are good for the environment, providing oxygen and taking away carbon dioxide, but those who should know better are doing the opposite.”

The Heritage Park was established to commemorate the university’s 60th anniversary and was conceived by Professor Labode Popoola, who was the Sub-Dean of Postgraduate Studies for the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry at the time. However, the park did not live to see its 20th birthday.

Advertisement
UI keeps losing trees

The university’s authorities have justified their decision, citing the need for new infrastructure. According to Olumide Omotola, the university’s Public Relations Officer, “The Heritage Park is giving way for the new Senate Building, and the park is being moved to another location. That is the reason for the removal of the trees.”

While some members of the university community acknowledge the need to replace old and potentially hazardous trees, the sudden removal of the Heritage Park has left many students mourning the loss of a beloved space that served as a relaxation spot, reading area, and recreational space.

A 2022 study estimated the size of the park at 1.3 hectares, roughly equivalent to three standard football pitches. Concerned students are now appealing to the university authorities to desist from further deforestation and to put more effort into planting trees.

Heritage Park now history

Abolade Chris Olugbenga, a student at the university, suggested planting more fruit trees on campus. “I prefer fruit trees instead of ornamental ones. We need more fruit trees like mango, cashew, pear, palm, banana, and pawpaw, which are perennial. Imagine a plantation of mango trees; students can find something to eat, especially those who self-sponsor and do not always have regular food to eat,” he argued.

Florish Emmanuel, a law student, emphasized the importance of communication between the school authority and the student community. “There should have been proper communication before cutting down the park. Heritage Park holds a lot of significance to students and the entire school,” she said. “Trees are very important. The air is clearer because of them. They serve as shade and make the environment beautiful and lively.”

As many students continue to mourn the loss of their cherished Heritage Park, the university authorities maintain that it is time for the trees in the park to make way for new developments. Nevertheless, the promise remains that the Heritage Park will emerge anew in another part of the campus.

Check Also

Kenyan Governor, Prof. Godhana Makes UNIPGC PALESH 2025 List Of Awardees

The Governor of Tana River County, His Excellency, Prof. Dhadho Godhana, has been nominated for a Double Award Honour in the forthcoming 14th Edition of PALESH LAGOS 2025.