The management of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti has suspended three officials, including the Students’ Union Government President, over allegations of unauthorised collection of money from students.
The affected individuals are the Director of the Directorate of Educational Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Mr Olanrewaju Patrick Ogunjobi; the Deputy Dean of Student Affairs and Support Services, Dr Banji Rildwan Olaleye; and the SUG President, Mr James Iyanuoluwa Adio.
The development was announced in a statement issued on Wednesday by the university’s Registrar, Mr Mufutau A. Ibrahim.
According to the institution, the decision followed a petition submitted by a student union official alleging that each 100-level student was compelled to pay N1,000 for practical sessions organised by the directorate.
The university stated that a preliminary fact-finding committee was immediately constituted to investigate the allegations in line with principles of fairness and due process.
The statement noted that all those named in the petition appeared before the committee and were given the opportunity to defend themselves.
Following its findings, the university alleged that Ogunjobi approved and collected the N1,000 levy from students without obtaining the necessary approval from the university Senate, management or through the institution’s official payment channels.
Management also accused Olaleye of participating in the collection process despite occupying a key position within the Student Affairs structure.
The university further alleged that the SUG president had indirect involvement in the matter.
According to the statement, Adio was alleged to have participated in the sharing of an initial sum and subsequently demanded the return of funds, leading to the transfer of N700,000 into his personal bank account.
The institution said all three officials had been placed on suspension pending the conclusion of disciplinary proceedings.
FUOYE described the allegations as inconsistent with its zero-tolerance stance on corruption, extortion and financial misconduct, stressing that it would take firm action against any practice capable of tarnishing the university’s reputation.
The management reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability and discipline, adding that acts of extortion, abuse of office and financial impropriety would not be condoned under any circumstances.
The university assured students and stakeholders that the matter would be thoroughly investigated and handled in accordance with established regulations.