EXCLUSIVE: Tensions Rise At Federal Polytechnic Ayede over ‘Alleged Favouritism, Fund Embezzlement’
As exclusively gathered, a significant crisis is unfolding at the Federal Polytechnic Ayede-Ogbomosho. As reliably gathered by this medium, the newly inaugurated board, which assumed office in August, engaged in serious battle with the rector, Engr. (Dr.) Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed, over alleged nepotism, fund embezzlement, and mismanagement.
Central to this turmoil are claims regarding the rector’s refusal to provide crucial documentation and reports related to the institution’s operations and contracts, raising alarms about transparency and accountability within the administration.
According to an insider who pleaded anonymity, despite repeated requests from the board chairman, Barrister (Mrs.) Ademubowale Mercy Adelabu, and other members for access to essential reports and contractual documents, the rector has allegedly disregarded these requests. This lack of cooperation has sent shockwaves through the board, prompting concerns over potential misconduct and financial impropriety that could jeopardise the institution’s integrity.
The situation has been further exacerbated by a formal complaint lodged by a community representative on the board. This complaint highlights critical issues, including the absence of due process in contractor selections, a troubling decline in the institution’s infrastructure, and allegations of favouritism in promotions favouring the rector’s allies—specifically those from Osun State—at the expense of deserving staff members from Oyo State. Such allegations suggest a troubling culture of nepotism that could undermine the institution’s credibility.
Tensions reached a boiling point during a recent council meeting when an unnamed member from Sokoto verbally attacked the board chairman. Eyewitness accounts hinted that this member sought to suppress the community representative’s petition, advocating for the abrupt dismissal of the raised issues. This confrontation escalated, with the board member reportedly threatening the chairman, further intensifying the discord within the council.
In response to these alarming developments, urgent calls for intervention are being made by a range of key stakeholders, on Governor Seyi Makinde, the Soun of Ogbomosho, Hon. Zach Adelabu Adedeji (Chairman of FIRS), Senator Fatal Buhari, Chief Sunday Dare, Senator Ayoade Adeseun, Hon. Segun Odebunmi Bunvic, and organisations such as CAN and MUSWEN. These influential figures are being urged to step in to prevent the institution from descending into chaos and to restore order and accountability.
Amid these rising tensions, there is also a growing demand for the President Bola Tinubu-led administration to undertake a thorough investigation into the allegations surrounding the Federal Polytechnic Ayede-Ogbomosho. Stakeholders are emphasising the critical need to protect public funds and ensure that institutional assets are not misappropriated for personal gain.
As the situation continues to develop, the future of the Federal Polytechnic Ayede-Ogbomosho hangs in the balance. The integrity of its governance and the welfare of its students and staff remain at stake, as the community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that preserves the institution’s foundational principles and commitment to education.
