The Federation of Oyo State Students’ Union (FOSSU) National Council has expressed its appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde for his consistent commitment to the welfare of Oyo State students, especially through the release of bursary allowances.
This commendation was delivered on Tuesday in a press statement by Senator Sodiq Yusuf, the outgoing Senate President of FOSSU’s National Council, who addressed key issues concerning the student union and its broader constituency.
While applauding the governor for his supportive initiatives, Yusuf also appealed for the prompt settlement of outstanding bursary payments, urging swift action in favor of affected beneficiaries.
At the same time, FOSSU expressed profound grief over the death of one of its respected leaders, Comrade Adelere Abiodun. The union hailed him as a forward-thinking and dedicated advocate who played a vital role in the indigenous student movement during his lifetime.
The union offered heartfelt condolences to Abiodun’s family, friends, and fellow students, stating that his legacy would be remembered and cherished for years to come.
Speaking further, Yusuf discussed the upcoming FOSSU election, affirming the legitimacy of the Electoral Committee inaugurated on June 14, 2025, in the Ibarapa Zone. He emphasized that its establishment aligns with the FOSSU Constitution.
He reiterated that the FOSSU Senate recognizes the committee’s authority and urged all stakeholders to ensure that the electoral process remains fair and constitutionally grounded.
“The Senate is concerned by the misinterpretation of FOSSU’s Constitution by the presidents of the National Association of Oke-Ogun Students (NAOOS) and the National Association of Oyo Students (NAOS),” Yusuf said. “As statutory members of the Senate, their roles must strictly adhere to the union’s governing laws.”
He also criticized the conduct of the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Students’ Affairs, alleging that the official has been leveraging the Governor’s office and state institutions to intimidate union members for personal gain.
“This interference must end immediately. The SSA, as a representative of the Governor’s office, should act as a neutral bridge, not a meddler in the union’s internal affairs,” Yusuf cautioned.
The statement further advised Mr. Victor Olojede to desist from any actions that could destabilize the peace and reputation of the union, warning that such behavior risks tarnishing Governor Makinde’s public image.
To ensure a smooth transition and transparency in leadership, the Senate directed the outgoing executive council, led by Comrade Alarape Ibrahim, to conduct a full audit of its finances, projects, and records, and to complete this task within 72 hours.
Additionally, the Senate ordered that all union assets — including the official FOSSU bus — be handed over to the Electoral Committee, alongside a full inventory of the union’s land and properties.
Failure to follow these instructions, the Council warned, could result in the matter being referred to the Oyo State Government, anti-corruption bodies, and key student representatives for necessary intervention.
In closing, Yusuf reaffirmed FOSSU’s dedication to safeguarding student interests, fostering cooperation among all regions, and promoting accountability and dialogue as central to resolving internal disagreements.