From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Governing Council of Osun State College of Technology, Esa-Oke, has dismissed allegations of favoritism in the appointment process for a new Rector, stating that due process and merit will guide the selection.
Chairman of the Governing Council, Prince Diran Odeyemi, criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC), for what he described as an attempt to politicise an academic process.
He emphasised that Governor Ademola Adeleke, as the institution’s Visitor, had given clear instructions to ensure transparency in the appointment.
“The governor has directed us to follow due process without bias based on gender, religion, or ethnicity. If the APC sees this as interference, they need to reassess their claims,” Odeyemi said.
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He noted that the position was publicly advertised to attract the most qualified candidates from across the country and beyond, ensuring that the college benefits from the best leadership.
“When we initiated the process, the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), wanted the selection limited to internal candidates. However, I stood my ground, and the governor supported the decision to allow external applicants because we want the best hands for the job,” he added.
Odeyemi dismissed claims that Governor Adeleke was influencing the process, stating that competence, vision for the institution, and academic qualifications would be the key criteria in selecting the new Rector.
“The selection of the Rector is the responsibility of the Governing Board and the Visitor. Bringing the governor’s name into it at this stage is nothing but cheap emotional blackmail,” he stated.
He assured stakeholders that the appointment would strictly adhere to the regulations set by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and the college’s governing laws.
