The Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, has addressed reports claiming she was attacked by students of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta. Contrary to the circulating stories, she stated that no such incident occurred.
During a visit from the Polytechnic’s management, led by Rector Arc. Koye Jolaoso, Salako-Oyedele explained that the misunderstanding stemmed from her security team’s decision to avoid a gathering of students during a peaceful protest.
“I was on my way to Alamala for the Armed Forces Remembrance Day when my security details noticed the crowd and advised the driver to take a different route,” she said. “I later returned to my residence to let the situation settle before proceeding to the event on behalf of the Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.”
She emphasized the need for caution when engaging with social media, noting how misinformation can spread quickly. “If I had been attacked, I wouldn’t have been able to attend the event,” she clarified.
Salako-Oyedele also advised students to adopt peaceful and constructive approaches when addressing grievances.
MAPOLY Management Apologizes on Students’ Behalf
The Polytechnic’s management expressed regret over the incident and offered an apology to the Deputy Governor. “We came on behalf of the Governing Council, management staff, and students of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic to apologize for any embarrassment caused,” said Rector Arc. Jolaoso.
The delegation included key members of the institution, such as the Deputy Rector, Dr. Yetunde Lanre-Iyanda; Registrar, Mrs. Olubunmi Elewodalu; and other senior officials.
Students Respond to Allegations
Earlier reports suggested that students attacked the Deputy Governor’s convoy during a protest regarding delays in their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) mobilization and increased fees. However, the Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Students, Ogun State chapter, Adeyanju Francis, refuted these claims.
Francis alleged that the security operatives attached to the Deputy Governor fired shots at students during their peaceful protest and called for an investigation into the matter. He also demanded an apology for the perceived misrepresentation of events.
Students Union Government Reinstated
In response to the crisis, the Chairman of MAPOLY’s Governing Council, Prof. Kamaldeen Balogun, ordered the reinstatement of the Students Union Government (SUG), which had been dissolved earlier. The union has been tasked with conducting elections within four weeks to transition leadership to a new executive body.
This development underscores the importance of dialogue and collaboration in resolving conflicts within academic communities.
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