By Otitoju Femi
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Professor Tajudeen Opoola, has called for sustained peace, transparency, and collective responsibility among staff, stressing that the institution’s progress depends on unity and mutual trust.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole, at the FUOYE SSANU Congress held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at the New Faculty of Science Auditorium, Opoola described the gathering as a rare opportunity for engagement and urged members of the university community to shun rumours capable of destabilising the institution.
“This is a rare opportunity we should always value. It is not good to give ourselves to rumours that could affect the peace and stability of the university community,” he said.
Addressing concerns about financial constraints, Opoola noted that while challenges exist, the university management remains committed to prudent resource utilisation.
“When the university has money, nobody knows; but when there is no money, everybody knows. That narrative must change. When funds are available, they will be used judiciously. There is no secrecy here because this is a public institution,” he stated.
He emphasised that the current administration is focused on fostering development and stability rather than conflict.
“Nobody is looking for trouble. By the grace of God, we will resolve issues, and situations experienced in the past will not recur,” he assured.
He also apologised for the absence of the Vice-Chancellor, attributing it to pressing official engagements.
“The Vice-Chancellor would have loved to be here because he values all unions, but due to his tight schedule, he could not attend,” he explained.
Highlighting recent efforts to strengthen relations with the union, Opoola disclosed that the Vice-Chancellor had engaged with the national leadership of SSANU both in Abuja and during their visit to Ekiti State.
“That singular act of hosting the SSANU leadership has laid a solid foundation for peace in FUOYE. If we act contrary to peace after this, then we are not being sincere,” he said.
He further urged staff to focus on professionalism and avoid unnecessary lobbying for positions, stressing merit and diligence.
“Stay where you are and do your work diligently. The system identifies the right person for the right position. Not everyone should be frequenting the Vice-Chancellor’s office unnecessarily,” he cautioned.
Calling for mutual respect and constructive criticism, Opoola encouraged SSANU members to engage management through proper communication channels.
“Let there be synergy between SSANU and management. Criticise constructively, but follow due process. Where there is no criticism, we may not realise our mistakes,” he noted.
He also underscored the importance of peace within the university community.
“Let us always pray for peace in FUOYE. If there is no peace in the university, there cannot be peace in our homes,” he added.
Earlier, the Chairman of the SSANU FUOYE branch, Comrade Benjamin Faleye, announced the union’s decision to partner with the university management, citing a noticeable improvement in the campus atmosphere.
“We have decided to partner with the management because we are already experiencing a more peaceful environment compared to the past administration,” he said.
Faleye commended Prof. Ogunwole leadership style, describing him as compassionate and supportive.
In his words, the new vice chancellor has started on a good note and we are supporting him to succeed and I want to urge all members of our great Union to support this administration
He also lauded the Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Professor Opoola. He is a father figure. Despite past differences, he has shown us genuine care. One of our members recently faced a serious challenge and was assisted through his intervention,” he said.
He declared that a new era had begun in FUOYE, marked by cooperation and goodwill.
“The time for change has come in FUOYE. We have sued for peace, and it will continue to reign. This administration means well for staff welfare, and we are confident it will favour us,” he stated.
However, Faleye appealed to the management to address pressing welfare concerns, particularly the payment of outstanding relocation allowances and salary arrears.
“Our take-home pay can barely cover transportation. We appeal for the payment of the remaining tranches of our relocation allowance,” he said.
On the issue of 15 months’ salary arrears owed between 2020 and 2021, Faleye urged the Vice-Chancellor to prioritise their settlement.
“We will appreciate it if the Vice-Chancellor looks into this. We believe his promise to make staff happy will be fulfilled,” he added.
He also acknowledged the Vice-Chancellor’s growing engagement with SSANU, contrary to earlier expectations.
Regarding the 2026 promotion exercise, he called for fair consideration of union members.
“We want a reasonable percentage of our members to benefit from this year’s promotion exercise,” he appealed.
Faleye also cautioned members against involvement in admission racketeering, unruly behaviour and any form indiscipline warning that such activities could tarnish the union’s image and attract disciplinary action.
Photo Credit: Eleniola Bamidele
