The Ondo State House of Assembly has come under intense criticism following allegations by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) chapter, that billions of naira appropriated to the university in recent years were never released.
Speaking during a press briefing in Akure, the union accused the Assembly of failing in its oversight responsibilities, allowing the executive arm to withhold funds meant for the institution. ASUU alleged that for the past seven years, capital grants have been consistently captured in the state’s budget for AAUA, but not a single disbursement has been made to the university.
The chairperson of ASUU-AAUA, Dr. Boluwaji Oshodi, described the situation as unacceptable, questioning the role of lawmakers who continue to approve budgets that are never implemented. He said the non-release of funds has plunged the university into severe financial hardship, with staff owed several months of salaries and the school’s infrastructure deteriorating rapidly.
Oshodi lamented that the Assembly’s silence on the matter amounts to complicity and urged legislators to demand accountability from the executive. He also criticized the government for focusing on establishing new institutions when existing ones are struggling to survive.
ASUU called on the state government to immediately release the appropriated funds, increase regular subventions, and prioritize the revitalization of the university to prevent further decline in the quality of education.
