The Academic Staff Union of Universities chapter at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, has expressed strong doubts over claims by the Ondo State Government regarding the disbursement of ₦1.1 billion to offset salary arrears. ASUU-AAUA Chairman Prof. Boluwaji Oshodi stated that the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has not been sincere with the announced funds.
Prof. Oshodi explained that lecturers are owed salaries for May, June, and July, noting that the claimed amount can only cater to two months, leaving July entirely out of the equation.
The union chairman further highlighted that as of early August, no funds had hit the university’s First Bank account, days after the state government publicly announced the approval and release of the money.
Beyond the immediate salary backlogs, Prof. Oshodi raised concerns over regional equity, pointing out that neighboring South-West states like Osun and Kwara have already implemented the new university salary structure, whereas Ondo State has consistently failed to do so.
Addressing the timeline for future action, Prof. Oshodi warned that even if the bank account reflects the payment on August 3 or August 4, lecturers will only work for the remainder of the week before embarking on a large-scale strike and protest starting August 10.
He revealed that security agencies, including the Police and the Department of State Services, have already been notified of the planned protests against what he described as inhuman treatment by the governor.
He added that the decision will be presented to the upcoming ASUU National Executive Council meeting for formal ratification, which will trigger fresh industrial action across tertiary institutions in the state.
