Osun Poly Rector’s Suspension: Lecturers Protest Disrupts Examination, Gov. Assures Due Process

By Ayodele Oni

Surprised by the unceremonious removal of its Rector, the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic (ASUP), Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, chapter on Tuesday  trooped out  to protest against the suspension of, Dr. Tajudeen Odetayo as the Rector of institution.

It was gathered that the protesting staff chanting solidarity songs barricaded the main campus entrance at Iree which left the students writing examination stranded.

Governor Ademola Adeleke had suspended Dr Odetayo on Monday  over alleged abuse of office and corruption.

This was contained in a statement signed by M.A.K Jimoh, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education.

According to the statement, Odetayo was suspended following allegations of financial recklessness, corruption, misappropriation of funds and abuse of office.

Reacting to the protest, the state government promised to investigate allegations against the suspended Rector and decide on appropriate action.

The statement reads, “The attention of the Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has been drawn to the protests by the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) of Osun State Polytechnic, (OSPOLY) Iree over the suspension of the Rector, Dr Tajudeen Adewale Adetayo.

“The Governor who is concerned about the reaction, urges all to remain calm and shun the protest which had led to closing the school gate, thereby disrupting the ongoing examination within the school.

“In a release signed by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, the Governor assured the ASUP and the Students of the institution that the matter will be looked into and necessary measures taken.

“The release added that OSPOLY Governing Board will soon be put in place to take over the matter and investigate the allegation which led to the suspension and take appropriate action as soon as possible.

“I understand the reason for the protest over the suspension of the Rector, Dr Tajudeen Adewale Adetayo. The step taken by the administration is necessary, but I assure you that full investigation will commence and every misunderstanding will be cleared.”

“I recognize the ASUP and I urge them to stop the protest, and allow investigation to hold for the matter to be sorted. Please do not allow yourself to be used by the opposition.

“You are important to the Government and the public. Please stop the protest and allow peace to be restored to the school community.”