Former Osun State Governor Adegboyega Oyetola and his successor, Ademola Adeleke, engaged in a heated exchange regarding the establishment of the University of Ilesa during their condolence visits to the palace of Owa Obokun, honoring the late Oba Adekunle Aromolaran.
During his visit, Adeleke claimed credit for not only facilitating the university’s establishment but also for securing funding for its operations. He emphasized, “I did not only ensure the establishment of Ilesa University, but also ensured that funds were released for its take-off.”
In response, Oyetola, represented by Bola Oyebamiji, CEO of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), vehemently disputed Adeleke’s assertions. He stated that the establishment of the university was initiated under his administration, which had already received approval from the National University Commission (NUC) before the governing council was formed.
“It’s on the strength of my agreement with Baba that I moved UniIlesa from mere paper approval to a functioning university with over 90 accredited courses,” Oyetola noted during his address, highlighting the infrastructural developments made during his tenure.
Oyebamiji reiterated Oyetola’s claims, stating, “There is no controversy over this. Oyetola’s government established the Ilesa University. If anyone has anything contrary, he should come forward to negate this with facts, not by propaganda means.” He emphasized that the governing board could only be constituted with prior NUC approval, underscoring the validity of Oyetola’s role in the university’s creation.
He concluded by expressing disappointment at the politicization of the issue, stating, “It is unfortunate that some people could still be so petty to the extent that they would be claiming what doesn’t belong to them.” Both leaders’ exchanges highlight the ongoing political rivalry and differing narratives surrounding significant developments in the state.