AAUA Students Expresses Displeasure As Strike Continues

By Tofunmi Oyekanmi & Ayotomiwa Mayomi. 

In an interview with Echo Media, Adekunle Ajasin University students expressed their displeasure over the ongoing indefinite strike embarked on by the Academic Staff Union of Universities, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko branch ASUU (AAUA), which started July 10, 2026 over the non-implementation of the 2025 FGN-ASUU agreement.

"It's not funny seeing my mate. Who we both wrote JAMB and now they are resuming as 300 level students while i'm stucked in 200-level. Before the strike started, I would have be in the exam hall writing my 200-level last semester exam which is now on hold says Biobaku Soyinka a 200-level Mass Communication student.

A 200 level student of the Department of Philosophy, Fagbemi Rhoda expressed her displeasure saying. " I expect that after exam,I will begin to work on some plans that I had made but the strike has affected my plans. The number of years I'm suppose to spend in school is increasing."

“The strike has also affect my decision to find a part-time job because no one want to accept student whose school is on strike." said Rhoda.

Similarly, Satimehin Samuel, a 100-level Medical Laboratory Science student, said the strike has forced him to cancel programmes and other plans he had made around his expected academic schedule.

“There are lots of programs I have to attend this month at my residence, but I have no option than to let it go. as well as some schedule I had in mind towards the next session for me to plan ahead the semester, but I have to cancel them, cause there is still a semester left delaying me just because of the strike.

“Whenever I decide to travel back to my residence just as other students did, that is when I will see another peaceful memorandum, giving me the assurance that the strike will be call off soon. And that has really cause series of uncertainty.” He said.

Ogunkomaya Kehinde, a 300-level Banking and Finance student, said the lack of clarity about resumption had made her less inclined to study intensively at home. " I feel relaxed about my academics right now because I don't want to stress my self reading at home When I don't know when I'm to be back on campus”.

‎ For Akadiri Sekinat, a 200-level Mass Communication student, the major concern is the examination itself.

”It has affected a lot, especially the exams. I’m quite scared about the exams right now because my brain is not even functioning the way it’s supposed to ” She said.

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Aiyedatiwa Approves ₦1.1bn for AAUA Amid Strike

By Ayotomiwa Mayomi

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved a N1.1 billion special intervention fund for Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), to offset outstanding salary arrears owed to staff of the institution.

In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, the governor approved the release of the fund as part of efforts to address the salary arrears and prevent recurring industrial disputes at the university.

According to the statement, the intervention is intended to settle outstanding salary obligations to workers and help resolve the issues contributing to the ongoing industrial action at the institution.

The AAUA chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) commenced its strike on July 10 over issues relating to staff welfare and salary arrears. However, as of the time of filing this report, the union had not issued an official statement on the governor’s latest intervention.

The statement added that Governor Aiyedatiwa had directed the Ondo State Ministry of Finance and the university management to ensure the prompt release and disbursement of the funds.

He also appealed to the university unions to suspend the strike and return to work in the interest of students and the continued development of the institution.

Prince Adeniyan further stated that the intervention reflects the Aiyedatiwa administration’s commitment to building a motivated workforce and strengthening AAUA as a 21st-century university capable of competing globally.

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ASUU-AAUA Embarks on Indefinite Strike Over Unpaid Salaries

By Nimatallah Aliyu

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) chapter, has commenced an indefinite strike over the non-payment of lecturers' salaries, bringing academic activities in the institution to a standstill.

The development was announced in a notice issued on Friday, July 10, 2026, by the Adekunle Ajasin University Students' Union Government (AAUASU), informing students that the industrial action officially took effect at 11:59 p.m. the same day.

According to the notice, the decision followed a resolution reached during the ASUU-AAUA Congress held on July 10, where members reaffirmed resolutions earlier adopted at the union's April 28 and June 18 congresses.

The statement noted that the union withdrew academic services over the non-payment of May and June 2026 salaries, declaring the strike to be "total, comprehensive, and indefinite." It added that the action would remain in force "until all outstanding salaries are fully paid by the appropriate authorities."

Reacting to the development, the Students' Union urged members of the university community to remain calm and await further official communications.

"All students are hereby advised to remain calm, law-abiding, and attentive to subsequent official communications from the University Management and the Students' Union Government regarding the implications of this industrial action on academic activities," the statement read.

The union also assured students that it would continue to engage relevant stakeholders and provide verified updates as events unfold.

"Students are strongly advised to disregard unverified information and rely solely on official announcements from the University Management, ASUU-AAUA, and the Students' Union Government," the notice added.

The announcement has generated anxiety among students, many of whom fear the indefinite strike could disrupt the academic calendar and delay examinations if a resolution is not reached quickly.

As of the time of filing this report, the university management had yet to issue an official response to the strike declaration.

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Kidnapped Oyo Pupils, Teachers Regain Freedom_ Presidency

Kidnapped Oyo Pupils and Teachers Regain Freedom_ Presidency

By Eniola Akinwumi-Niyi

The pupils and teachers who were abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have been released after spending 56 days in captivity according presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga. 

The Presidency confirmed the release of the abductees, with Presidential spokesperson Bayo 

Onanuga announcing the news on Facebook and X ( formerly called Twitter ).

“Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, have been rescued by our security agencies,” Onanuga said.

In a video shared by Onanuga, Alamu Folawe, the Vice Principal of Community Grammar School, expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the security personnel involved in the rescue.

She said "The President, sir, we are grateful. We understand your commitment to our safety, and we appreciate all you did for us. Every security operative tried so much, and that is why we are still alive now. We are very grateful."

According to Onanuga, the group, consisting of 39 pupils and seven teachers, was rescued following coordinated operations by various security agencies.

The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Olugbenga Abimbola, also confirmed the rescue and indicated that further details of the operation would be provided later.

Reports indicate that the abductees were held inside the Old Oyo National Park, a protected forest reserve associated with the Kainji National Park, where a faction of Boko Haram was reportedly active. Some terrorists were reportedly killed during the rescue operation.

The victims were kidnapped on May 15 when armed individuals attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, and L.A. Primary School, Ahoro-Esinle, leading to heightened concern across the state.

Governor Seyi Makinde condemned the abduction, recognizing it as a reflection of changing security challenges in the country. He stated that security operatives encountered improvised explosive devices planted by the attackers during search operations and announced the arrest of six suspects linked to the incident.

The incident prompted protests by civil society organizations and members of the National Union of Teachers (NUT), who demanded the immediate rescue of the victims.

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Pro-Chancellor of AAUA Assures New VC of Governor’s Support

By: Oyekanmi Tofunmi

The pro-chancellor and chairman of the governing council at AAUA, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, has expressed the support of Ondo state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa for the newly inaugurated vice chancellor, Professor Tomola Marshal Obamuyi, throughout his tenure.

This statement was made during the inauguration ceremony of the vice chancellor, held at the university's multipurpose hall on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, attended by members of the governing council, university community, students, and other dignitaries.

"I can affirm after two hours deliberation with the Ondo state governor that you will get his support during your tenure” 

 He assured the new vice chancellor of the university that the governing council will provide the necessary support for his tenure. 

He emphasized that the governing council aims to enhance the university's competitive standing on a global scale, aligning with the vice chancellor's vision. "The objective is to position the university as a distinguished institution in Nigeria and a globally competitive center for learning and research," he stated.

The pro-chancellor conveyed confidence in the vice chancellor's ability to advance research initiatives and urged him to lead the university towards recognized excellence in teaching, research, and community service. He underlined the importance of fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation among staff, students, and stakeholders.

In his remarks, the pro-chancellor acknowledged the contributions of the immediate past vice-chancellor, Professor Olugbenga Ebenezer Ige, and thanked his wife, Chief Mrs. Olugbenga, for her support.

He congratulated the new vice chancellor, noting his credentials and reputation in academia, particularly in the field of banking and finance in Africa.

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AAUA VC Promises More Than Survival for Students

By Jesupelumi Adesua 

Adekunle Ajasin University’s newly inaugurated Vice Chancellor, Professor Tomola Marshal Obamuyi, has assured students that his administration will create an enabling environment where they can thrive, not just survive, promising to provide the structures to support it. 

Professor Obamuyi made these remarks during his inauguration as the university's seventh substantive Vice Chancellor, which took place on Wednesday at the Obasanjo Multipurpose Hall.

"You are not merely students but also human beings with pressures, anxieties, and aspirations that extend beyond the lecture hall. We will provide structures that will enable you to thrive, not just survive, in AAUA," he said.

Regarding students' welfare, Professor Obamuyi affirmed that his administration would prioritize mental health and well-being alongside academic achievement. He noted the significance of addressing students as individuals with various pressures, anxieties, and aspirations beyond academic pursuits. He indicated plans to implement support systems that would facilitate thriving rather than merely surviving in the university environment.

In his address to the students, he emphasized their central role in the university's existence and stated that all advancements, including lecture halls, new buildings, partnerships, and grants, were made for their benefit. He urged students to participate actively in university life and contribute to the campus community.

He urged students to prepare for life after university by becoming responsible citizens rather than solely residents on campus saying they should be “scholars and not certificate seekers”, highlighting the complexities and competitiveness of the world beyond the university as a crucial consideration for students.

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New AAUA VC Unveils FIRST Strategic Vision

By Ayotomiwa Mayomi

The newly inaugurated Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba-Akoko, Professor Tomola Marshal Obamuyi, outlined his vision during his inauguration ceremony held at the university's multipurpose hall.

 He summarized his vision in a framework he called “The AAUA First Strategy: A Vision for Sustainable Excellence”.

In his address, Professor Obamuyi elaborated on the components of his FIRST strategy, which stands for: F - Funding Opportunities; I - Infrastructural Development; R - Research and Academic Excellence; S - Service to Staff, Students, Partners, and the Community; and T - Technology Advancement.

He stressed the significance of his FIRST Strategy saying “I promise to establish robust capital campaign and endowment funds, with a target of twenty billion naira in five years”. He indicated plans to mobilize AAUA alumni for a monthly savings plan aimed at contributing to a three hundred million naira fund for research and innovation.

Additionally, Professor Obamuyi announced intentions to reposition AAUA Business School into a professional executive education hub offering certification programs. He also stated plans to construct a 3,000-seat auditorium to support the university's ambitions.

Professor Obamuyi further expressed a commitment to collaborate with staff, students, industry leaders, technology firms, and academic institutions to develop high-impact initiatives and memoranda of understanding.

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AAUA Set to Inaugurate New Vice-Chancellor

By Tofunmi Oyekanmi

Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), is set to officially inaugurate its seventh substantive Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tomola Marshal Obamuyi, in a ceremony scheduled to hold on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at the University Multipurpose Hall.

The inauguration is expected to attract government officials, members of the university community, alumni, stakeholders, and other distinguished guests. 

The event will formally mark the commencement of Professor Obamuyi's tenure as Vice-Chancellor, with expectations that his administration will promote academic excellence, innovation, and institutional development.

In preparation for the ceremony, the university management has declared Wednesday, July 8, 2026, a lecture-free day to enable staff and students to participate in the event. Consequently, all lectures and other academic activities have been suspended for the day.

Highlights of the inauguration will include the formal procession of the university management, the presentation of the instrument of office to the new Vice-Chancellor, goodwill messages from invited guests, and Professor Obamuyi's inaugural address, where he is expected to outline his vision for the institution.

The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m., and members of the university community have been encouraged to attend in large numbers to welcome and support the new administration.

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Students React to AAUA's Crackdown on Indecent Dressing

By Tofunmi Oyekanmi & Jesupelumi Adesua

The recent enforcement of Adekunle Ajasin University's dress code by the institution's security unit has continued to generate mixed reactions among students, with some applauding the move while others question the manner of its implementation.

In recent weeks, security personnel have intensified checks at the university gates, preventing students whose outfits are considered indecent from gaining access to the campus. 

Under the university's dress code, clothing such as short dresses, leggings, revealing outfits, ripped jeans, sleeveless tops, as well as hairstyles deemed inappropriate, including long braids worn loosely and uncombed or locked hair, may attract sanctions. Affected students are often asked to return home or change their appearance before being allowed into the campus.

Speaking on the development, Benita, a 100-level Biochemistry student, described the measure as necessary, saying it would encourage students to comply with the institution's rules.

"I wore something that was against the rule and was asked to go back home. It was understandable because I was wrong," she said.

Similarly, David, a 200-level Guidance and Counselling student, supported the policy, noting that it could help reduce indecent dressing on campus. He, however, urged the university to ensure that the enforcement extends beyond the school gate if it is to achieve its intended purpose.

Mariam, a 400-level Industrial Chemistry student, also welcomed the initiative but appealed to security personnel to adopt a more respectful approach when dealing with students.

"The measure is good because it will encourage people to dress better. However, the security officers should not be harsh in the way they address students, as that will not necessarily make them change their dressing habits," she said.

Despite the support from some quarters, several students expressed concerns over what they described as inconsistent enforcement of the policy. Some alleged that the rules are applied selectively, claiming that students with certain body types are more likely to be stopped for wearing leggings, while others dressed similarly are allowed into the campus. Others said the manner in which security personnel confront students is often embarrassing.

Bolaji Victoria criticised the restriction on leggings, arguing that it limits students' comfort.

"It is very bad because why will they tell us not to wear leggings? Do they expect us to be wearing gowns or maxi skirts all the time? This new policy has affected the way I dress," she said.

Daniel, a 200-level Law student, questioned the effectiveness of the enforcement, arguing that some students simply undo the corrections they make once they pass through the gate.

"Some students are asked to pack or roll up their hair at the gate, but immediately after entering the campus, they loosen it again. Others even use different entrances where these checks are not as strict," he said.

Joshua, a 200-level Guidance and Counselling student, also criticised what he described as excessive harassment by security personnel.

"They seem to enjoy exercising authority over students because they know everyone has no choice but to comply. They should reduce the way they harass students over the issue of indecent dressing," he said.

A 300-level Biochemistry student, who preferred to remain anonymous, described the experience as both embarrassing and frustrating but acknowledged that students have little choice but to obey the institution's regulations.

"It is not nice. It is really embarrassing and sometimes frustrating, but there is nothing we can do. It is the school's policy," the student said.

Sophia, a Mass Communication student, also believes security personnel sometimes go beyond their responsibilities, stressing that every student deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.

This new policy introduce by the school authorities has continued to generate discussions among students with many urging for a balance between maintaining discipline and respecting the students' rights and dignity.

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