Ondo Tertiary Institutions Threaten Shutdown Over Non-Implementation of Budget, Minimum Wage

 

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of Ondo State-Owned Tertiary Institutions has issued a fresh 7-day ultimatum to the Ondo State Government over its failure to implement the 2025 approved budgetary allocations to tertiary institutions in the state.

In a letter addressed to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and dated April 27, 2025, the committee expressed deep concern over what it described as the government’s persistent neglect of financial responsibilities to the state’s four tertiary institutions, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko; Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa; University of Medical Sciences, Ondo; and Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo.

The letter, jointly signed by JAC Chairman Comrade A. Olutayo Ogungbeni and Secretary Comrade Kunle Akinwonmi, highlighted several unresolved issues, including non-payment of the 2024 National Minimum Wage, non-release of withheld subventions since 2017, outstanding salary arrears of over 54 months, and the continued payment of the outdated N18,000 minimum wage at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic.

JAC condemned what it described as “government propaganda” on subvention increments and cited Ekiti State’s recent 300% increase in allocations as a benchmark the oil-producing Ondo State should follow.

Efforts to resolve the matter through official channels, including appeals to the Governor’s Special Adviser on Union Matters, have reportedly failed.

The group warned that failure to meet its demands within 7 days would lead to a total shutdown of all four institutions, a move that could disrupt academic activities and further impact students.

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Dorian Homes CEO, Dr. Tolulola Bayode, Set to Lay Father to Rest in Oba Ile

Renowned philanthropist and founder of Dorian Home for Charity and Social Development in Akure, Dr. Tolulola Olajibike Bayode, is set to lay her father, Chief Joseph Agboola Bayode, to rest. The funeral rites are scheduled to commence on Wednesday, April 30, and conclude on Friday, May 2, 2025, in Oba Ile, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State.

Chief Joseph Agboola Bayode passed away on January 15, 2025, at the age of 85. He was celebrated for his humility, wisdom, and unwavering support for his daughter's humanitarian endeavors. He often spoke of Dr. Bayode's lifelong commitment to uplifting the less privileged, noting her early acts of kindness within their family and community.

Dr. Bayode, a medical professional and humanitarian, established Dorian Home in 2021 to provide shelter, education, and care for orphans, widows, and vulnerable individuals. The facility has since become one of the largest privately-run orphanages in Africa, housing over 100 children and employing approximately 60 staff members. Her dedication to social welfare has earned her numerous accolades, including the U.S. President's Lifetime Achievement Award for her outstanding service to humanity.

The upcoming funeral is expected to draw dignitaries, community leaders, and well-wishers from across Nigeria and beyond, all coming together to honor the life and legacy of Chief Bayode. Dr. Bayode has expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support during this period of mourning, stating that her father's values and teachings will continue to guide her mission of compassion and service.

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Constituency Project: 85 Million Yaba Youth Empowerment Project: Sponsors, Procuring Entity Disappear, Fail to File Defense

In a stunning development, the sponsors and procuring entity behind the controversial N85 million Yaba Youth Empowerment Project have failed to appear in court or file any defense, a move interpreted by Ekimogun Roundtable as an attempt to avoid public embarrassment and ridicule.

The lawsuit, filed by the Ekimogun Roundtable, alleged grave violations of fundamental principles, including the absence of a proper needs assessment, lack of community engagement, and breaches of established procurement protocols, all critical to ensuring transparency, accountability, and authentic community-driven development.

"The defendants' refusal or inability to respond to these serious allegations not only vindicates the Ekimogun Roundtable’s position but also underscores the fact that the Yaba community may have been shortchanged and misrepresented by those entrusted to serve their interests.

Their sudden disappearance has deepened public suspicion and raised legitimate concerns over the integrity of the project's conception and execution. Effective youth empowerment demands projects that are rooted in authentic needs assessments, shaped through genuine community participation, and implemented with full adherence to transparent and fair procurement processes. Any deviation from these principles ultimately betrays the very beneficiaries such initiatives claim to serve." The group said. 

Reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law, the Ekimogun Roundtable stressed that development projects must respect due process, inclusivity, and uphold the highest ethical standards. The group called on all parties involved, especially the project sponsors and procuring entity, to act transparently, take full responsibility, and implement corrective measures that can restore public trust.

The group emphasized that its only interest in the matter is to ensure that the funds reach the intended beneficiaries within a reasonable timeframe. It vowed to continue monitoring developments and advocating for outcomes that truly honor the voices of Yaba youth and the broader Ondo East/West Federal Constituency.

The matter has been adjourned to May 5, 2025, for further hearing.

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