News
Current situation in LAUTECH: Management finally breaks silence.
IT has become imperative for Management to put the records straight regarding the current situation in Ladoke Akintola University of Technology LAUTECH, Ogbomoso, more so, that the general public is being fed with a lot of untruth on the issues involved.
This Administration came into office on July 29, 2011 at the height of the ownership crisis which threatened the very existence of the University. The entire membership of staff was polarised along ethnic divides resulting in serious distrust. This took its tolls on the academic programmes of the University with many of them, including medical programme, losing their accreditation.
The daunting challenges notwithstanding, the Administration braced up and with the strategies put in place, peace returned to the University and until June 2016, tremendous progress and achievements were recorded. Some of these are highlighted as follow:
1. On the Use of IGR to Augment subventions from State Governments and pay Salary
The total sum of Nineteen billion, one hundred and seven million, one hundred and fifty four thousand, five hundred and forty Naira, sixty six kobo (=N=19,107,154,540.66) only being the total salaries excluding casual labour wages for the period between January, 2012 to December, 2016 was paid by this Management. A total sum of eleven billion, ninety-eight million, seven hundred and seventy three thousand, nine hundred and fifty eight Naira and fifty six kobo (=N=11,098,773,958.56) only represents the total subvention released by the States for the same period.
Out of this amount, the Government of Oyo State contributed a total sum of Seven billion, five hundred and forty seven million, one hundred and thirty-eight thousand, one hundred and fifty-seven Naira, twenty four kobo (=N=7,547,138,157:24) only while the State of Osun paid a total subvention of Three billion, five hundred and fifty one million, six hundred and thirty five thousand, eight hundred and one Naira, thirty two kobo (=N=3,551,635,801:32) only within the stated period.
If we deduct the total amount paid as subventions by the two State Governments from the expected subventions due to the University within the period, it gives a difference of Six billion, Seven hundred and forty eight million, seven hundred and fifty seven thousand, eight hundred and seventy one Naira and fifty kobo (=N=6,748,757,871.50) only which was what the present Management used to augment the subvention released by the two States during this period using IGR. Please note that the two State Governments did not provide a kobo as running or Capital Grants to the University during the period.
When the University began to experience funding challenges in 2014, (owing to non-release of subventions, first by the State of Osun and later by Oyo State) Management was constrained by its desire not to allow a reversal of the good progress being made; it, therefore resorted to using Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to pay salaries. The reasoning then was that Management could not be watching staff members starving while funds (which they actually worked for) are kept in banks for the benefits of the banks. This decision was taken after due consultation with the Staff Unions and approval sought from the Governing Council.
It is important to note that all of these were made possible because of the commitment and cooperation of the members of the University community particularly the members of the Management who agreed to make sacrifices in forgoing some legitimate perquisites. Some of them are non-collection of Imprest for over two (2) years, reduction of per diem of members of Management while on official trip/assignment, non-attendance of conferences, seminars and workshops to mention some but a few.
2. Use of IGR for other staff welfare since 2011
Before the assumption of office of this Management, a sum of Two hundred and fifty million Naira (=N=250,000,000:00) only being the balance of loan obtained by one of the past Administrations was settled by the present Administration using Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
The sum of Ten million Naira (=N=10,000,000:00)only being loan obtained by the past Management of LAUTECH Ventures was also outstanding and only got settled by this Management using IGR. The Council and Management then put in place the process of complete reorganisation of the Ventures with a view to meeting the economic challenges and generating expected revenue to the University. This process was at the final stage of implementation before the commencement of the industrial strike actions embarked upon by the unions on campus last year.
Another debt of One hundred and thirteen million, five hundred and thirty three thousand and sixty five Naira, sixty eight kobo (=N= 113,533,065.68) only, representing the outstanding retirees’ gratuity was settled by the present Management, on assumption of office, using IGR. In addition to this, about four (4) months’ salary deductions and promotion arrears were inherited by this Management and settled using IGR.
The total sum of One billion, eight hundred and twenty nine million, twenty six thousand, nine hundred and forty four Naira, forty six kobo(=N=1,829,026,944.46) only being the arrears of CONUSS/CONPUA and Hazard Allowances on the assumption of duty of the present Administration and was equally settled using IGR.
The total sum of One billion, five hundred and ninety eight million, five hundred and sixteen thousand, thirty nine Naira and seventy six kobo(=N=1,598,516,039.76) only being arrears of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) and Earned Allowances (EA) was paid to workers between 2012 and 2013 also using IGR. It should be noted that the Federal Government made provisions for the payment of these arrears to Federal Universities. The University Management wrote several letters to the Owner-States for the refund of this amount paid on their behalf to the workers up till date the refund is yet to be effected.
Furthermore, In order to ensure transparency and prudency, Management had always involved the Staff Unions in the decisions to disburse the IGR. A University Finance Committee with its membership drawn from all the Unions and the Management, has been put in place.
3. Academic Activities
Given the peaceful atmosphere and a little motivation to the staff, the University was able to run its academic calendars smoothly. Two convocation ceremonies were held in 2014 and 2015 in addition to the installation of the Chancellor, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This was made possible by the selfless contributions of the University Staff and approval by Senate and Council.
All the academic programs, including the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB, BS)
regained accreditations from the different Professional Bodies and the National Universities Commission (NUC). The academic culture of inaugural lectures was restored. Both students and staff shone brilliantly at National and International conferences and competitions winning laurels. The University made good progress as regards collaborations and linkages with Universities within and outside Nigeria.
4. Operating ninety seven (97) Bank Accounts
It is important to state that majority of the bank accounts were opened and maintained by the past Administrations and inherited by the present Administration in 2011 when it assumed office. It is equally important to state that the decision to prune down the number of accounts was recommended by Management and approved by Council. This is contrary to claims made by the representatives of the two Governments. Up till today, there is no single correspondence from either Oyo or Osun States before the University Management to operate a Treasury Single Account.
5. Bursary Department having ten (10) Chief Accountants
The University was established twenty seven (27) years ago and has been expanding both in size and operations. The staff of Bursary Department just like that of any other departments in the University was inherited by this Administration and the staff has just been growing with the University. It is pertinent to state that the present Administration since its assumption of office in 2011 has employed only one staff who is a professional to head the Public and Alumni Relation Unit (PARU) of the University to work on the redemption of the battered image of the University as a result of the ownership crises during the past Administration in the year 2010.
6. Bursary Department Using Manual Accounting System
Since the inception of this Administration a lot of efforts have been made by Council and Management to ensure that the operations of both Bursary and Audit Departments are computerised. The process of awarding the contract was at the final stage awaiting the approval at the next Council meeting before the commencement of the industrial action embarked upon by the unions on campus last year.
7. Comparing LAUTECH with UNIOSUN
LAUTECH was licensed on 23rd April, 1990 and commenced academic business on 19th October, 1990 twenty (27) years ago while UNIOSUN was licensed on 21st December, 2006 and commenced operations on 21st September, 2007 precisely ten (10) years ago, comparing these two Universities may not give a fair result for the following reasons:
Age of the two Universities which tends to make LAUTECH to be bigger than UNIOSUN in terms of size and operating costs/overheads;
The staff strength of LAUTECH is higher than that of UNIOSUN in view of the age of the later.
The retirement benefits being paid monthly and annually by LAUTECH cannot be compared with that of UNIOSUN.
8. The KPMG Issue
The University has been in communication with the KPMG and in the latest mail received on Monday, June 5, 2017, the organisation stated categorically that a new date for the commencement of the auditing would be conveyed to the University once some contractual issues are sorted out with Oyo State Government. Management had indeed confirmed its readiness to cooperate with KPMG knowing fully well that the audit exercise would be in the interest of the University on the long run.
9. Concluding Remark
Management wishes to appreciate the concern of all stakeholders especially the Governments and people of the two Owner-States of Oyo and Osun and indeed all Nigerians who are contributing their own quota to the efforts to resolve the crisis in LAUTECH. The students should please know that all the stakeholders share in their plight and are determined to find a lasting solution to the crisis. The cooperation and support of the Staff Unions to the concerted efforts being made towards moving the University forward are well appreciated.
Given the determination of the Governments of the two Owner-States to end the crisis in the shortest time possible, it is certain that normalcy will return to the University soon. Management also hopes that the University will soon be able to resume its progressive march towards the highest level of excellence.
News
Rep Oseni Rallies Support for Ikogosi Development Projects, Calls for Resilience, Unity
The Chairman of the House Committee on the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and representative of Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in Oyo State, Engr. Aderemi Oseni, on Saturday urged the community to unite in advancing key development projects aimed at transforming Ikogosi.
Speaking at this year’s Ikogosi Day celebration and the launch of a N1 billion development project in Ekiti, the lawmaker, who served as the Chairman of the occasion, emphasised the importance of unity and collective action.
He encouraged attendees to approach the celebration as a call to action for the betterment of their community.
“As we all know, Ikogosi is not merely a town; it is a treasured gem in the heart of Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole,” he said. “Ikogosi, a historic and vibrant town, plays a vital role in the tourism and economic landscape of Ekiti State. Its rich cultural heritage and unique resources draw visitors and stimulate economic activities that benefit us all.”
“Today is not just a celebration; it is a call to action,” he continued. “Let us come together, united in purpose, to support these transformative projects that promise to uplift the Ikogosi community. I urge everyone here to invest their time, resources, and energy in this endeavor. Together, we can build a legacy of self-help and development that future generations will cherish.”
Reflecting on the broader challenges facing the country, Oseni encouraged the people of Ikogosi and all Nigerians to remain hopeful and resilient, assuring them of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to a brighter future for the nation.
“To the good people of Ikogosi and all citizens of Nigeria, I urge you to remain steadfast and hopeful. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu means well for all Nigerians. The APC-led administration’s Renewed Hope agenda holds the promise of a brighter future. Though the beginnings may be challenging, perseverance will guide us toward a prosperous new Nigeria,” he stated.
In a statement released by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, the lawmaker lauded the Ekiti State government under Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s leadership for its transformative efforts in governance and development.
He acknowledged the strides made by the governor and praised his impactful initiatives, which have set Ekiti on a progressive path.
“First and foremost, let me commend the Ekiti State government under the leadership of His Excellency, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. The trailblazing development initiatives and effective governance during your tenure have not gone unnoticed,” Oseni remarked.
“Under your stewardship, we have witnessed remarkable progress and commendable governance that have undoubtedly made Ekiti State a shining example of peace and development,” he added.
News
Bad Roads: ‘Focus on Message, Not Messenger’ – Nigerians Tell Works Minister, Umahi
The Nigerian Minister of Works, David Umahi, has ignited widespread public reaction following his response to recent criticisms by Engr. Aderemi Oseni, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA).
Oseni, who represents Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in Oyo State, had accused Umahi of neglecting essential infrastructure needs, alleging that the minister has “no plan for the nation.”
At a committee oversight meeting last Thursday, the lawmaker expressed his frustration over the worsening state of roads across the country.
“You are not here to tell us what we already know in the area of resources,” Oseni stated. “If you are telling us the reason you have failed in fixing our road infrastructure is because of resources, don’t let me take you up on that, because you concentrated your energy as a minister on less priority issues.”
In response, Umahi addressed a press briefing at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Monday, dismissing Oseni’s comments.
He remarked that Oseni “had not attained half of what I have achieved in life” and added that he would “not join issues with the lawmaker” out of respect for the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the National Assembly.
Speaking further, the minister suggested that Oseni was representing contractors affected by recent reforms in the Ministry of Works.
“Let me say that I was not physically present at the meeting, nor was my permanent secretary,” Umahi said. “Nobody can talk to me like that in my presence. It’s not possible.”
Public Outcry: Nigerians Demand Accountability
Umahi’s remarks have drawn backlash on social media, where Nigerians urged him to focus on addressing their concerns about deplorable road conditions rather than deflecting criticisms.
Many expressed frustration with the state of federal roads, calling on the minister to prioritize solutions over defensiveness.
“Mr umahi, ur have actually abandoned our existing roads all over Nigeria and focusing on elephants projects”, commented Daniel Morgan. “Travelling from Southwest to Southeast is now by the special grace of God. Please do something and stop criticizing the messenger and look into the massage.”
Charles Anarado added, “No matter how one may look at this matter, Oseni stands on a sound good point that building a new stretch of road for N15trillion that is more than enough to fix all the bad major roads around the country seems indeed to be a misplaced priority. It’s just like parent using the funds meant for paying his children to school to buy a car to take them to school. His decision may seem good but paying school fees should certainly be his priority”.
Calls for Transparency and Priority on Repairs
Other Nigerians joined the conversation, with some social media users demanding more accountability from the minister.
Nnaemeka Mekah voiced frustration over Umahi’s response to criticism, stating, “This short man takes every criticism as a personal attack. Oga minister, MOST NIGERIAN ROADS ARE IMPASSABLE NOW, and you’re doing absolutely nothing about it. Dunno what else you claim to have achieved in life, but as far as Nigerian toads are concerned, you’re a monumental failure”.
Another user, Nanmah Fanto, supported Oseni’s criticisms, commenting, , “The Reps Committee Chairman, was absolutely correct 2 tell Umahi d truth about accountability n Umahi’s lack of given priority 2 existing bad roads, n concentrating on unimportant road construction. I used 2 think Umahi was wise, until that incident I realized that he wasn’t better at all, he’s also thinking of enriching himself at d detriment of fixing our bad roads. Now, I know better, he shouldn’t be given any more funds until he explains how judiciously he spent d #300 billion given to him”.
Meanwhile, Facebook user, Dapo Oyedele suggested a constructive approach, urging Umahi to respond with facts.
“It’s not about joining issues, it’s accountability. The truth is that federal roads are very bad. But your ministry is doing it’s best. The roads are many… Reply the honourable with facts and figures of what has been done in about one and half years and what’s are your plans to improve the situation of the roads as d minister”.
Nationwide Demand for Effective Solutions
Frustration over Nigeria’s roads continued to echo online, with many demanding that Umahi focus on repairing existing infrastructure.
Ogheneovo Peter William, another Facebook user remarked, “I will join issue Because na bitter the lawmaker tell you, Bad roads every, People are suffering from una bad policies, Them people go still suffer bad road”? he questioned.
“It is not about joining the issue with anyone. It is about fixing the existing roads that we have and stop this white elephant project of Lagos calabar costar road”, a user on Facebook, Sunday Adewuyi Adedokun said.
Continuing, Francis Azuka Obukwelu opined on the ‘blue App’, “He should say something about the bad roads in Nigeria”.
News
Oseni Donates N10m to Support Ibadan’s Mogaji Ile Eke Project
The Chairman, House Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Aderemi Oseni has made a donation of ten million naira (N10m) towards the Mogajis’ Ile Eke project in Ibadan.
Oseni, who also represents Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency of Oyo State, said the donation is aimed at supporting the Mogajis assembly’s project that holds immense cultural significance for the wider Ibadan community.
According to him, the project will remain a testament to the cultural and historical legacy of Ibadanland as it is expected to preserve the historic relevance of the palace while enhancing its role as a cultural landmark.
In a statement released on Saturday by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, and made available to newsmen in Ibadan, the lawmaker emphasised the importance of preserving cultural heritage and fostering unity within traditional institutions.
He highlighted that the project would not only elevate the status of the Mogajis’ assembly but also serve as a central hub for promoting Ibadan’s rich cultural history.
“It is a privilege that I was called to be part of the project. If I fail to support it, the project will still be successful, but I believe I have to contribute. My life is dedicated to serving God Almighty, the people, and humanity,” Oseni said.
He further stated, “As a son of the soil, it is my responsibility to contribute to the growth of our shared heritage – Ibadan and by extension, Oyo state as a whole. The Mogajis’ Ile Eke project symbolises our collective identity and unity as a people. This donation is my modest contribution towards ensuring that future generations can connect with their roots.”
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