Students under the Federation of Oyo State Students’ Union (FOSSU) National Council have praised Governor Seyi Makinde for his continuous support of indigenous students, particularly for his efforts in providing bursary allowances aimed at easing their financial burdens.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Senator Sodiq Yusuf, outgoing Senate President of the FOSSU National Council, acknowledged the governor’s commitment to students’ welfare but appealed to him to expedite the release of pending bursary payments so affected students could benefit without further hardship.
The union also expressed profound grief over the passing of one of its prominent leaders, Comrade Adelere Abiodun. The Council described Abiodun as a dedicated and visionary figure who played a pivotal role in advancing the interests of indigenous students. FOSSU extended heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and the wider student body, vowing that his contributions and advocacy would not be forgotten.
Turning to internal matters, Yusuf spoke about preparations for the upcoming FOSSU elections. He confirmed that the Electoral Committee, inaugurated on June 14, 2025, in the Ibarapa Zone, remains the officially recognised body under the union’s constitution. He called on all stakeholders to respect the committee’s authority and maintain the integrity of the electoral process.
However, Yusuf raised concerns over what he described as a misinterpretation of the FOSSU Constitution by leaders of the National Association of Oke-Ogun Students (NAOOS) and the National Association of Oyo Students (NAOS). He emphasized that as automatic senators within FOSSU, their actions must align strictly with the union’s governing laws.
Additionally, Yusuf criticized the Office of the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Students’ Affairs for alleged interference in union affairs. He accused the office, led by Mr. Victor Olojede, of using Governor Makinde’s name and government resources to intimidate stakeholders who refuse to comply with personal interests. He urged the SSA to remain neutral, stating that the office should act as a bridge between the government and students, rather than meddling in internal union matters.
“We urge Mr. Victor Olojede to desist from actions that could disrupt the peace and progress of our union and potentially tarnish the good reputation of Governor Seyi Makinde,” Yusuf cautioned.
On governance within the union, the Council ordered the dissolved Central Executive Council, led by Comrade Alarape Ibrahim, to conduct a thorough audit of its administration. They were directed to complete this audit within 72 hours, detailing finances, projects, and official records.
Furthermore, the outgoing leadership was instructed to hand over all union properties, including the FOSSU bus, to the Electoral Committee and account for all union lands and assets. The Council warned that failure to comply would compel them to involve the Oyo State Government, anti-corruption agencies, and other student stakeholders to seek appropriate remedies.
Yusuf concluded by reaffirming FOSSU’s dedication to defending the rights and welfare of Oyo State students. He urged everyone involved to follow constitutional guidelines, uphold transparency, and pursue dialogue as the preferred path to resolving any disputes.
