Stakeholders at Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, are urging the newly elected Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to look past politics and take decisive action to reposition the institution.
Their appeal follows years of challenges, which stakeholders say have affected the university’s operations and stifled its growth potential.
Members of AAU’s staff, students, and Ekpoma residents shared their views with a team of journalists, including representatives from Tribune Online, during a recent fact-finding visit. Reflecting on the university struggles, they stated, “If you were here (the university) years ago or even six months ago, you would have noticed the extent of the challenges that plagued the university under Governor Obaseki.”
The stakeholders expressed hope that Governor Okpebholo’s administration could be the turning point AAU desperately needs, adding, “Our only hope was that a Messiah would come to help reposition the university’s operations.
Thankfully, our new governor, whom we campaigned and worked for, has been elected. We believe his victory will be a game-changer for AAU, Ekpoma.”
A key recommendation to the governor centered on funding, which stakeholders consider essential for AAU’s revitalization.
“Nothing will change if the funding remains the same,” they warned. “The governor must invest in the university, pay workers’ arrears, and implement the current minimum wage. And supporting structural growth and accreditation for unaccredited courses, restoring the accreditation of courses that lost accreditation, among others.”
Additionally, the recent dissolution of AAU’s governing council drew mixed reactions, though many praised the former council, led by Dr. Omo-Ehijele Frank Odafen, for its accomplishments.
Stakeholders commended Dr. Odafen’s leadership, saying, “Dr. Odafen showed genuine love for the university community and the state. His leadership brought about the minimum peace and respite we enjoy today.”
Among Odafen’s contributions were the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Panel, the Needs Assessment Committee, and staff promotions for those eligible.
“Dr. Odafen’s administrative understanding of the university’s operations has been impressive,” they noted.
To move AAU forward, stakeholders urged Governor Okpebholo to prioritize competence and transparency over political considerations in key university appointments.
They believe such measures, along with increased funding, will position AAU for sustained growth and development, setting it on a path to becoming a top-tier institution in the region.
