A lecturer at Bamidele Olomilua University of Education, Science & Technology, Ikere-Ekiti (BOUESTI) Mr. Akeem Bello has rained praises on the governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji for massively jerking up subvention allocation to the institution.
The new N100 million subvention, according to him, was not only monumental but unprecedented as financial grant from a government to alleviate the strain on the university’s finances, particularly in meeting salary obligations to its workforce.
The increase, Bello said, would greatly assist the university administration in addressing salary arrears and assist in meeting essential needs such as classroom facilities, among others.
“Governor Oyebanji’s swift action reflects his commitment to fulfilling promises as evidenced by his assurance to bolster the university’s funding, which has now materialized sooner than expected. We extend our deepest gratitude to His Excellency for this timely intervention, he stated.”
However, Bello also seized on the development to petition Governor Oyebanji to reinstate all the unions in the university, emphasizing their indispensable role as partners and stakeholders.
Quoting constitutional provisions on freedom of expression and association, Bello underscored the importance of upholding these rights and urged the governor to rectify any violations.
He backed his petition up with constitutional provisions, saying “As enshrined in Chapter 4, Section 39(1) of the constitution, ‘Every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference’,” stated Bello.
“Furthermore, Section 40 emphasizes that ‘Every person shall be entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons, and he may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interests’.”
“I implore Your Excellency to consider the reinstatement of unions in campus as their absence contravenes fundamental rights and undermines the university community’s cohesion,” concluded Bello.
Bello also commended the Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor O. V. Adeoluwa, for his steadfast leadership and expressed solidarity among university staff in ensuring the institution’s success during his tenure.
“Esteemed Vice-Chancellor, your remarkable contributions to BOUESTI are commendable. Your dedication to elevating the university’s status, aiming for a spot among the top 10 through heightened visibility and academic excellence, is unparalleled. Rest assured, your vision will be realized, and we stand ready to support you every step of the way,” he stated.
