Osun Polytechnic Shuts Down Amid Leadership Crisis
In a surprising twist, the Osun State Government has ordered the immediate closure of The Osun State Polytechnic, Iree Campus, for a period of two weeks. This move comes following the reinstatement of the suspended Rector, Dr. Tajudeen Odetayo.
The closure order, announced by the state’s Commissioner for Education, Dipo Eluwole, cited the need to maintain peace within the institution amidst the contentious return of the suspended Rector as the primary motivation behind this decision.
The official statement read, “Effective immediately, we inform the public, especially the staff and students of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, to commence a two-week break. This abrupt break is deemed necessary to ensure tranquility within the institution following the unexpected return of the suspended Rector, Dr. T.A. Odetayo. Furthermore, it’s vital to note that the school’s financial accounts have been frozen immediately. It is of utmost importance that everyone fully cooperates with and adheres to these directives.”
This development follows the suspension of Dr. Tajudeen Odetayo by the state government back on July 24, 2023, on allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of office. Alabi Kehinde was appointed as the interim replacement.
However, in a dramatic turn of events, the suspended Rector, Tajudeen Odetayo, resumed his office earlier on Thursday, following a court order from the National Industrial Court, Ibadan Division. Justice Opeloye Ogunbowale, in a ruling, granted an interim order restraining Governor Adeleke and others from appointing a new rector for the polytechnic. The court also directed that no further actions be taken regarding the institution until a hearing scheduled for October 10, 2023.
Meanwhile, the acting Rector, Kehinde Alabi, has called on the Polytechnic community to remain calm and resolute amidst the ongoing crisis. He urged staff and students not to be intimidated but to uphold peace and order. In a personal statement, Alabi expressed confidence that the state government is actively addressing the situation and working towards obtaining a stay of execution in court.
The closure of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, and the continued leadership dispute underscores the urgent need for a lasting resolution to ensure stability and the seamless functioning of the institution in the days ahead.
